Investigative Interview Insights: Reflecting on the PEACE Model
The PEACE interview model explained — its five stages, its strengths, and where its non-confrontational approach falls short with hostile witnesses.
While some fraud investigations may be done mostly on the basis of documents collected, most if not all investigations require at some point to conduct interviews.
Yet, what makes the "perfect" investigative interview can seem elusive. This is where having a system comes in handy.
And this week, we look into one in particular: the PEACE model.
This approach, rooted in principles of fairness and openness, aims to gather high-quality evidence without confrontation, making it particularly valuable in non-criminal investigations.
But is it really the gold standard?
Let's explore.
Developed in the UK, the PEACE model is an acronym that outlines 5 key stages of an investigative interview:
Planning & Preparation: This stage involves setting clear objectives, reviewing available evidence, and preparing questions. Detailed planning ensures that the interviewer is well-prepared to guide the conversation effectively.
Engage & Explain: Building rapport with the interviewee is crucial. This phase involves explaining the interview process, setting expectations, and creating a comfortable environment for the interviewee to speak freely.
Continue reading
This article runs to about 826 words. The rest is part of membership, along with the full searchable library and the Job Corner.
Topics: Investigations
