[talu21]

Is there an age limit for someone to be questioned by dhs? I know someone who dhs wants to question for court, and the child is 3 years old is that legal?

[tickle]

Department of Homeland Security would have clear guidelines on who they can and can't question. I don't think they would be questioning a three year old. If this is what you mean. What information could they possibly get from a three year old anyway; a 3 year old can barely form sentences, let alone process an answer to a question as they would be asking.

Tick

[ScottGem]

Assuming dhs in your area (ANY question on law needs to include your general local as laws vary by area) doesn't stand for Department of Homeland Security but is your local family services agency.

A lot here depends on the charges being brought. For example, if it is a sexual abuse charge, then the child would have to be questioned. But probably not in open court by an attorney, but in private by a psychologist.

I would doubt that there is any specific law that says a child under x age can't be questioned in court.

[tickle]

Hi Scott, before responding to this post I checked on Google for 'dhs' and it did come up referring it to Dept. of Homeland Security. I had considered poster meant child services, and that could be a few combinations of abbreviations. I hesitated, but went with Dept. of Homeland Security which could involve questions to a young person. Ultimately, should have considered my first option of child services, but who knows ? Thanks.

Tick

[J_9]

DHS is also Department of Human Services.

[Fr_Chuck]

The issue is that most courts will not all agree, often it depends on the judges view, some judges may talk to younger children in chambers privately. Others will have trained social workers talk to the kids and report the findings.