How to Report Child Abuse

Anyone "having cause to believe that a child's physical or mental health or welfare has or may be adversely affected by abuse or neglect" must report the case. An oral report must be made immediately to the 24-Hour Child Abuse Hotline 1-800-252-5400.  Anyone who files a report is immune from civil or criminal liability - if the report is made in "good faith" and "without malice."

  • "Good Faith" means the person took reasonable steps to learn the facts that were readily available and at hand.
  • "Without Malice" means the person did not intend to injure or violate the rights of another person.

Failure to report suspected child abuse or neglect is punishable by imprisonment of up to 180 days and/or a fine of up to 1,000. (Texas Family Code, Chapter 34)

When making a report of suspected abuse be prepared to provide the following information:

  • Child’s name, age and address
  • Brief description of the child
  • Current injuries, medical problems or behavioral problems
  • Parents’ names and names of siblings in the home

    • You may also file a report of suspected abuse using a secure web site: www.txabusehotline.org.

     

    If you are concerned about what happens if you suspect abuse, report it and you are wrong, we implore you to also consider what happens if you suspect abuse, do not report, and you are right!
     

    Report Suspected Abuse to 1-800-252-5400 or 911