Using the specialised knowledge in the investigation of child endangerment

The scientific article highlights the peculiarities of the use of special knowledge in the investigation of endangering an underage person. The author analyses the opinions of scholars on the concept of special knowledge and classification of its forms in the forensic theory. It is emphasized that in order to form the evidence base in criminal proceedings, it is necessary to use special knowledge in the following forms: appointment of forensic examinations; involvement of a specialist during procedural actions, reference and advisory form, etc. It is proved that the participation of a specialist is justified during such investigative (detective) actions as an investigative examination, interrogation, temporary access to things and documents; presentation for identification, investigative experiment. The author defines the role of a teacher (psychologist) during the interrogation of a juvenile victim: assistance to the investigator in establishing psychological contact with the interrogated person; assistance in choosing effective tactical techniques and methods of psychological influence, taking into account the personality of the interrogated person; etc. The author identifies the difficulties of interrogating an underage person and emphasises the use of modern techniques and specialists with extensive experience in interrogating underage persons. Attention is drawn to the role of consultations as an auxiliary form in the appointment of forensic examinations. The author identifies the forensic examinations which are of greater importance in criminal proceedings of this category, including: trace evidence, biological, forensic medical, and forensic psychiatric examinations. Attention is drawn to obtaining initial information during a psychological examination.