23rd December 2021

A 14 year old girl has been referred for a forensic examination as part of child protection proceedings

A 14 year old girl has been referred for a forensic examination as part of child protection proceedings, and a criminal case. She appears distressed, and refuses the examination. She is reluctant to elaborate further, but you know from the referral that the case relates to an allegation of sexual abuse. You explain what the examination would entail, and that it is an important part of the evidence-gathering process – but she remains adamant.

Which of the following statements about the above scenario is correct?  

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.