Disciplining A Child
MCL 750.136b — reasonable discipline, including reasonable force, is not child abuse
In Michigan, the child abuse section says it does not prohibit a parent or guardian, or another person permitted by law or authorized by the parent or guardian, from taking steps to reasonably discipline a child, including the use of reasonable force.
Where the degrees begin. Knowingly or intentionally causing physical harm to a child is child abuse in the third degree, a felony of up to 2 years for a first offense. Knowingly or intentionally committing an act that is cruel to a child, regardless of whether harm results, is second degree, up to 10 years for a first offense. Knowingly or intentionally causing serious physical or serious mental harm is first degree, punishable by imprisonment for life or any term of years.
Fourth degree. An omission or reckless act that causes physical harm, or a knowing act that poses an unreasonable risk of harm or injury, is fourth degree child abuse, a misdemeanor of up to 1 year for a first offense.
| The assumption | What the law actually does |
|---|---|
| The assumptionAny physical discipline is child abuse | What the law actually doesReasonable discipline, including reasonable force, is outside the section |
| The assumptionWithout an injury there is no charge | What the law actually doesA cruel act is second degree regardless of whether harm results |
Whether particular discipline crossed the line is decided on the facts of the case, and what happens when child protective services opens an investigation is a separate question. A licensed Michigan attorney reads a specific situation.
Sources for this section (1)
- MCL 750.136b — Child abuse; degrees; penalties; reasonable discipline
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Michigan attorney.