Clinical forensic medical examinations conducted by the Department of Forensic Medicine in Copenhagen in child abuse cases

Abstract

Child abuse, including physical, sexual, or emotional violence or neglect, is a global problem with serious and long-term consequences for children. Even though child abuse is prohibited in Denmark, the estimated number of physically and sexually abused children is relatively high, whereas the annual number of forensically examined children is low. We present the Danish practice and legal foundation for the clinical forensic medical examination (hereinafter referred to as “forensic examination”) in suspected child abuse cases. Forensically documented findings may contribute to the police investigation and legal assessment of child abuse cases, safeguarding the rule of law for both children and suspected perpetrators. The forensic examinations are accredited according to international and European standards, and the Department of Forensic Medicine is regularly assessed for the fulfillment of accreditation. Accreditation, delimitations from medical treatment and police employment, and the fact that the department refers to the University of Copenhagen ensure impartiality from the police and the judicial system. A cross-sectoral intervention project has significantly increased the annual number of forensically examined children at the Danish Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) in Copenhagen, which supports children's legal rights and holds research potential due to systematic and continuous data collection.