Walk It Through: The Report
Listed professionals report immediately, a fine after 24 hours, and a misdemeanor for some offenses.
A child care provider who is paid has reason to suspect a child is abused.
Two things a person in this spot might do. Picking one shows what the law says about it.
Three listed reporters. What counts as abuse or neglect, the immunity a good faith report carries, and the confidentiality of the reporter are not worked through here.
A practice walkthrough, not a prediction of how any real one will go. Legal information, not legal advice.
Words this turns on
Terms with a legal meaning that is narrower than the everyday one. Each links to the definition and the authority behind it.
- Class 1 misdemeanorThe highest misdemeanor class, punishable by up to twelve months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, or both.
- Required reporterOne of the persons the section lists who, in a professional or official capacity, has reason to suspect a child is abused or neglected, and reports it immediately to the local department or to the Department's toll free hotline.