A multi-disciplinary team (MDT) is the key to the Child Advocacy Center. It is made up of members from different agencies (see below). The team members collaboratively make decisions about the investigation, prosecution, and treatment of child abuse and assault cases.

Each member of the MDT has a unique job and duty to fulfill regarding the safety and well-being of the child. The team approach allows members to combine professional knowledge, which increases communication and accuracy of information. It also allows for more immediate follow-up, appropriate referrals to medical and mental health services, and consistent support for child victims.

This team is composed of representatives of the following agencies and disciplines:

  • INOVA Fairfax Hospital/FACT Department
  • Leesburg Police Department
  • Loudoun Child Advocacy Center
  • Loudoun Citizens for Social Justice/LAWS
  • Loudoun County Attorney´s Office
  • Loudoun County Commonwealth´s Attorney´s Office
  • Loudoun County Department of Family Services
  • Loudoun County Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation, and Substance Abuse Services
  • Loudoun County Juvenile Court Services Unit
  • Loudoun County Sheriff´s Office
  • Loudoun County Victim Witness Program

Who is on the MDT and what is their job?

  • Forensic Interviewer—Specially trained professional in forensic interviewing of children either provided by the Loudoun CAC or through law enforcement or Child Protective Services Investigators
  • CPS (Child Protective Services) investigator—Investigates what happened to make sure your child is safe.
  • Detective—Investigates the allegations and presents the evidence to the Commonwealth´s Attorney to determine if any laws have been broken and what criminal charges may be filed.
  • Commonwealth´s Attorney Office—Reviews and decides whether to prosecute the case. The Commonwealth´s Attorney is the attorney who would prosecute the case in court.
  • Victim Advocate- Works closely with the team and is available to assist you with questions and concerns you have regarding the case. Will be available to stay with your child at the CAC when you are talking with investigators. They will also assist you with referrals for services such as counseling.
  • Mental Health provider—Provides counseling services when appropriate.
  • Medical provider—Provides medical exams when appropriate.
  • Loudoun CAC Director—The Director facilitates the MDT Case Review meetings to ensure children and their non-offending family members are referred to appropriate services.