[Children as witnesses of violence: consequences for determining reliability]

For many years testimony by children was considered to be of little value. The authors of the present article do not share the view that the credibility of children should generally be questioned. Different investigations show that even young children are able to make forensically relevant depositions. The roles of developmental stage, memory and suggestibility of children are discussed in detail. A case report of a child who witnessed the murder of both parents demonstrates the importance of age-related aspects of emotional experience, development of memory and the ability of children to recall memories. Even at the first hearings it is important to establish a nonthreatening atmosphere in which the child can feel safe and protected. An experienced child and adolescent psychiatrist should be consulted early on.