Description
Did you know pastors and other church staff may be required by law to report child abuse and that laws on this vary state by state? This resource will guide you through finding how each state defines child abuse, who is required to report abuse, and—if a person is required to report—details on requirements on what must be done, according to the law, including:
- How to report abuse. Find out if your state requires you to call or allows you to fill out a digital form.
- Where to report abuse. Different states may require reporting to different agencies.
- How soon you are required to report abuse. Some states require reporting abuse "immediately"—others may allow for more time.
- If clergy-penitent privilege applies. Learn how the clergy-penitent privilege affects the mandatory reporting requirement in each state.
- Penalties for not reporting and if there's civil liability for not reporting. Not reporting abuse when you're a mandatory reporter could result in criminal charges and civil lawsuits.
- If your identity can be revealed after you report abuse.
All 50 states and the District of Columbia are covered in this resource. In addition to this information, an article explains 22 facts about child abuse reporting laws to help you understand them.
