What must be recorded at the beginning of an interview?

Recording the date and location of the interview at the beginning is essential for multiple reasons. This documentation establishes a clear timeline and context for the information obtained during the interview. It allows anyone reviewing the evidence or the results of the interview to understand when and where it took place, which can be critical for legal proceedings or future investigations. The date helps to track the sequence of events, while the location provides insight into the atmosphere or circumstances surrounding the statements made by the witnesses or individuals involved.

In contrast, while a witness's criminal history, evidence gathered previously, and a list of questions are important aspects of the investigative process, they do not pertain specifically to the foundational details necessary at the start of the interview. These elements can be considered later in the process, but establishing date and location upfront creates a solid framework for the interview itself.