Introduced in the middle of the 1980s, the cognitive interview intended to perfect the techniques of interviewing witnesses and victims of crimes and offences. Since then, numerous international researchers have found an interest in this technique. The major reason for its success within the scientific community is probably due to the scientific basis of its elaboration, referring to various models of memory. Among the potential users—mainly professionals of justice—its use is not systematic, even for those with extensive training. We can then question the adequacy of the cognitive interview in relation to the characteristics of a real forensic interview. First, we will present studies which have shown the utility of the cognitive interview while testing its reliability according to diverse characteristics of the situation of the interview, and according to the characteristics of witnesses. Then, we will question the costs and the compatibility of the cognitive interview with the various phases and objectives of an investigation. Moreover, we will question the usability of the cognitive interview, particularly its learnability, and then propose solutions to improve its usability. Finally, our conclusion will deal with the social acceptability of this interviewing technique by professionals.