Every day, prosecutors across America balance their duties as both an officer of the court and advocate while in pursuit of truth. This article provides seven tips for prosecutors to zealously advocate for victims while maintaining the highest ethical standards. Although the Cosby case involved the sexual assault of an adult, these tips would also apply to high-profile crimes against children.

Through themes, prosecutors can communicate with the jury on a deeper level that includes feelings as well as facts. This article first discusses what is essential to an effective theme before highlighting seven overlapping themes prosecutors can employ in many child abuse cases.

This umbrella review examines public resources and the authors’ experience and expertise to assess the prevalence, risks, and effects of abuse and denialism within Christian communities. It synthesizes insight from multiples sources to inform this analysis. Despite the forces of denialism in many Christian communities, voices are rising, demanding safeguards and accountability. This chorus, led by survivors, gives hope that denialism in the Christian church may one day be overcome. Although this articles focuses on Christian churches, similar issues affect most religions.

It has been nearly 20 years since the publication of Unto the Third Generation—approximately half-way through the first of three 40-year plans proposed by that article. This paper reviews the recommendations of Unto the Third Generation, details the significant reforms the article inspired, and also discusses where the article fell short and needs revision. Most importantly, it discusses whether or not Unto the Third Generation has contributed to a reduction of child abuse in the United States or has at least set a foundation which can achieve the ultimate goal.

A practical companion to ZAP's treatise on Child Statement and Forensic Interview Admissibility. The publication synthesizes case law, state statutes, and hearsay exceptions, into 11 basic strategies for prosecutors to admit forensic interviews and child statements into evidence.

Explores the nuanced techniques necessary for cross-examination in child abuse cases. The guide provides 22 techniques split into four categories ranging from fundamental to advanced tactics. Each technique includes sample lines of questioning for easy adaptation by frontline prosecutors.

As court cases increasingly involve the use of digital evidence, the demand for experts who can evaluate how that evidence was collected and analyzed—and then explain that process to the court— has also grown. This article provides attorneys with a baseline understanding to help them better assess potential digital forensic experts.

Self-care is a crucial, non-negotiable part of the healing journey for adult survivors of child sexual abuse. We hear the term “self care” thrown around a lot in our culture, but sometimes it’s not clear what self-care looks like. Here are a few techniques that helped me on my healing journey. Remember: you deserve it!

In this post, Melanie describes her childhood sexual abuse, the long aftermath (shame, fear, self-harm), and how disclosure at a child advocacy center helped her begin a non-linear healing journey grounded in faith and finding her voice. She frames “hope” as turning pain into purpose through writing, survivor-centered trainings/presentations (including work with SHIELD Task Force), and advocacy/education—especially around trauma’s physical impacts like pelvic pain.

This article explores the research on the sexual abuse of boys and offers concrete suggestions for conducting forensic interviews with these children, investigating crimes against boys, and presenting these cases to a jury.

Provides 8 introductory considerations for prosecutors, and addresses the complexity and challenges faced when working cases involving remotely stored and encrypted data. It also explores investigative procedures and legal process best practices when obtaining electronic evidence.

Provides 7 advanced strategies for prosecutors, as well as guidance for dealing with cloud providers and other stakeholders. Zero Abuse Project developed this article to serve as a reference for prosecutors and investigators facing challenges when working cases involving remotely stored data.

Prosecutors handling cases involving children with disabilities must be prepared to serve and advocate for individual child victims’ unique physical, cognitive, and/or emotional needs. This guide will address each of these components of the prosecution, and conclude with sample motions to implement recommendations.

Even though signed search warrants are legally binding court orders, Big Tech still may not comply. This guide acknowledges common privacy concerns that make data more difficult for the government to obtain, and lays out six strategies for prosecutors confronting objections from electronic service providers.

Seeking to introduce a forensic interview is not an ancillary matter in child abuse prosecution. In many cases, it is the most critical, persuasive piece of evidence for the jury’s consideration. This guide will equip entry level prosecutors with an understanding of relevant admissibility law in their jurisdiction, and encourage seasoned prosecutors to take a fresh look at the several viable options for forensic interview admissibility.

Offers a comprehensive guide for prosecutors and law enforcement on navigating the complexities of obtaining remotely stored data, both domestically and internationally. This article provides an overview of relevant laws, including the Stored Communications Act and the CLOUD Act, and offers practical guidance on obtaining and using digital evidence in criminal investigations.

Discusses the challenges of introducing digital evidence, the importance of due diligence, and the ongoing debate about encryption. The article also touches on finding qualified digital forensics experts and the legal issues surrounding geofence warrants and border searches.

Discusses the challenges faced by digital forensics professionals due to the increasing volume and variety of digital evidence. This article explores the legal complexities surrounding digital evidence, including privacy concerns and the admissibility of screenshots and incomplete data.

Discusses how child abuse was increasing during the COVID-19 pandemic because children have less contact with mandated reporters. The article also details seven ways to help prevent child abuse.

Focuses on the 6th and 14th Amendments regarding chain of custody, authentication, discovery, the right to a speedy trial, and due-process concerns.