Some people have asked if the child must testify in court on her own behalf in a SSI case.
The answer is yes. The Administrative Law Judge wants to hear from the child. The testimony may turn out to be limited or very basic, but in any event the child is required to testify.
Most Administrative Law Judge’s are sensitive to the child’s position and will take measures to protect them from certain information. For instance, they may ask the child to leave the room if there will be testimony that is graphic or disturbing to them.
If you have any specific questions regarding a child’s testimony, please feel free to call me.