Some states provide an exemption for clergyman who receive information in the context of a sacred communication or confession. This raises the issue of whether pastoral counselors in private practice can assert the privilege. American Bar Association Standards of Practice For Lawyers Representing a Child in Abuse and Neglect Cases . All states require the report to be made to some type of law enforcement authority or child protection agency. Reporting to a parent or relative will not satisfy the reporter's legal duty under the statutes.
States now have similar statutes requiring the reporting of elder abuse.
This web page does not constitute legal advice. This is a rapidly changing area of the law. You should consult a lawyer if you have any questions about your reporting duties. On-line statutes can become out of date and are subject to legal interpretation depending on particular facts and circumstances. Thank you to everyone who has written to let me know about broken links and amendments to legislation.