Abstract
<jats:p>The article provides a comprehensive study of the theoretical and applied foundations for involving specialists in investigative (detective) actions, with a particular focus on the tactical and psychological peculiarities of interrogation. The author analyzes the legal nature of the interaction between the investigator and the specialist, considering it a complex system based on the synergy of the imperative norms of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine and the discretionary powers of the subject of investigation. The paper examines in detail the scientific debate regarding the boundaries of the specialist’s professional autonomy and the risks of devaluating the investigator’s procedural authority when “third parties” are actively involved in the act of communication. It is proved that despite the fact that a specialist (psychologist, teacher, doctor) has their own method of conversation, the overall leadership and responsibility for the results of the investigative action invariably rest with the investigator.Particular attention is paid to the use of special knowledge as a tool for establishing and maintaining psychological contact. The role of the specialist as an “intellectual filter” is substantiated, which allows neutralizing attempts by interrogated persons to manipulate the investigation through the use of specific terminology. The functional significance of the specialist in the implementation of key tactical techniques is revealed, in particular “interrogation at the scene” and “presentation of evidence,” where the specialist provides methodological, predictive, and verification support. A special emphasis is placed on the specifics of the interrogation of minors, where the participation of a psychologist is defined as a humanitarian safeguard that allows balancing the interests of justice with the protection of the child’s mental health. The conclusions summarize that the involvement of a specialist is an expedient and necessary condition of modern forensic practice, which directly affects the cognitive accuracy of evidence, the objectivity of the reconstruction of the circumstances of the crime, and the overall optimization of the terms of the pre-trial investigation. Keywords: special knowledge, expertise. investigator, specialist, interrogation tactics, psychological contact, minor, procedural interaction, criminal proceedings.</jats:p>