Common questions about child abuse reports

A child abuse or neglect report may be filed to child protective services for various reasons. For example, the report may be used to:

ensure a child's safety
provide documentation to child protective services regarding a child's mistreatment
meet state-mandated reporting requirements
help a family affected by child abuse or neglect receive appropriate treatment and education

Who conducts the investigation?
Child protection workers are usually social workers who have specialized training in working with families and children. Child protection workers often work in teams and with other professionals, sometimes including law enforcement officers.

How are abuse allegations investigated?
States set their own definitions of mistreatment within civil and criminal contexts. Interpretation, laws and reporting obligations differ.
When abuse is suspected at home, an investigation typically begins with a home visit to gather information about the allegations. Then, child care providers, teachers, neighbors, medical professionals, family members or others may be interviewed to help determine the validity of the allegations.

During the course of an investigation, child protection workers may determine what resources are available within the family to help make the necessary changes. For example, an extended family member may be required to help care for the child or the family may be required to attend counseling.

Children typically remain in the home during an investigation unless it becomes an emergency situation.


Is the person who reports the abuse protected?
In most states, people who report child abuse or neglect in good faith are protected from damage liability if a lawsuit arises based on the report. Many states limit the circumstances under which the reporter's identity can be disclosed.

What happens if the child has to be removed from the home?
If a child must be removed from his or her home, the child protection worker will typically file an immediate petition for custody and place the child with a responsible family member, a licensed foster home or a child care shelter. A guardian ad litem is usually appointed by the court. During family court proceedings, a judge will consider the evidence and make a decision about custody based on the child's best interests.
As long as the welfare of the child is properly represented, the goal is rehabilitation and restoration of the family unit. The parents or legal guardians are held accountable for certain actions.

Note: Specific child abuse processes and laws vary by state. For state-specific information, contact your local social service agency.