OMG From this side of the table, it does seem incredibly odd that the kids would be questioned within earshot of the abusive parent. How could they possibly expect the kids to feel safe enough to disclose the truth? I KNOW DS wouldn't have. 1) He'd have been afraid of making his dad mad and 2) he'd have been afraid that if he did say anything, it'd be his fault daddy doesn't get to see him anymore. DS doesn't express it that way, but he weighs his answers differently.... He's oh so careful around his father....
Hugs.