Be patient
Establishing trust with the victim may be difficult during initial interviews. Victims may not initially divulge key details due to fear.
In the human trafficking context, it is common to engage in multiple interviews as trust develops. It is also common that there may be initial inconsistencies as a result of distrust or the victim’s lack of understanding about the legal process.
Interview setting
Victims should be interviewed in a setting in which they are physically and emotionally comfortable. Interviewers should offer water, avoid noisy areas or areas with heavy foot traffic, and ensure that only essential people are present in the interview.
Confidentiality limitations
You will not be able to keep details disclosed by the victim confidential. Explain this at the beginning so the victim will understand your role and not feel betrayed if you have to share information with prosecutors or other government officials.
Referrals
Make referrals to appropriate legal, social, and mental health services as soon as possible to establish trust and to ensure the victim receives needed support. See Tip 5 for more information.
Communication
If the victim has limited English proficiency, trust will be nearly impossible to establish without a skilled interpreter. See Tip 4 below to learn about when to use an interpreter.