Reporting Child Abuse or Neglect

Who must report

A person having cause to believe a child’s physical or mental health or welfare has been or may be adversely affected by abused or neglected must report IMMEDIATELY! Professionals must make a report within 48 hours of when the reporter first suspects child abuse. A professional may not delegate or rely on another person to make the report.

This includes: Teachers, Counselors, Attorneys, Doctors, Individuals whose personal communication would otherwise be considered privileged.

Legal Protection

The identity of an individual making a report under this chapter is confidential and may be disclosed only on the order of a court or to a law enforcement officer for the purposes of conducting a criminal investigation of the report.

You are immune from civil or criminal liability as long as the report is made in “good faith” and “without malice”. “Good faith” means that you took reasonable steps to learn the facts. “Without malice” means that you did not intend to injure or violate the rights of another person.

Failure to Report

Class B Misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for up to 180 days and/or fine of up to $2,000.00

What to Report

• Child’s name and age
• Parents name and address
• Physical indicators observed
  Person suspected of abuse or neglect
• Address and/or school of child
• Any statement made by the child
• Behavioral indicators observed
• Relationship to child

Where to Report Abuse

Your local law enforcement or State Hotline for Texas: 1-800-252-5400.