Typically, adult protective service social workers investigate reports of alleged elder maltreatment. Due to collaborative or contractual relationships, law enforcement officers and medical, mental health, and social work professionals may conduct some of the required interviews or collect other evidence. The primary goal of the investigation is to prevent further harm to the elderly person who may have suffered neglect or abuse. The first step in the investigation is intake and screening. The person who reported the suspected maltreatment will be asked to provide identifying information about the elderly person in question. This includes name, age, location, and information about the alleged victim's functioning and limitations. The reporter will also be asked the nature of the allegations, the basis for the allegation, and under what circumstances the reporter obtained the information or evidence that led to the allegation. Other background data on the case can be obtained from reviewing relevant records, interviewing professionals and paraprofessionals currently or previously involved in the provision of services to the victim, interviewing informants, and interviewing family members. Separate discussions cover techniques for interviewing suspected victims and suspected offenders. Another aspect of the investigation is the use of specialized diagnostic evaluation that may include a medical examination or a specific type of diagnostic medical procedure. Accurate, clear, and immediate documentation of all activities and findings is critical during a protective service investigation. 4 tables and 16 references