{"id":372374,"date":"2016-03-31T21:34:49","date_gmt":"2016-04-01T02:34:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/state\/delaware-law\/delaware-child-abuse-laws.html"},"modified":"2025-06-27T13:19:16","modified_gmt":"2025-06-27T18:19:16","slug":"delaware-child-abuse-laws","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/delaware-law\/delaware-child-abuse-laws.html","title":{"rendered":"Delaware Child Abuse Laws"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Delaware Child Abuse Laws<\/h1>\n
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\n By Christie Nicholson, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Jordan Walker, J.D.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

Delaware child abuse laws criminalize physical, emotional, and sexual abuse of minors and mandate reporting by professionals like dentists, doctors, and teachers. Child abuse is defined as harm or neglect by a parent or caretaker. Reports must be made to Delaware\u2019s Division of Family Services, and failure to report to this department can result in penalties. These laws aim to protect children and ensure timely intervention. For legal advice, consult a <\/i>criminal defense<\/i><\/a> or family lawyer familiar with Delaware law.<\/i><\/blockquote>\r\n

This article explains how the State of Delaware\u2019s child abuse laws work, including the mandated reporter laws. For more information on this topic, consult a local criminal defense attorney<\/a> or family lawyer.<\/p>\r\n

Delaware Code Definition of Child Abuse<\/b><\/h2>\r\n

For purposes of this section, Delaware law defines child abuse as when a parent or caretaker emotionally, physically, or sexually abuses, neglects, or abandons a child under 18 years of age.<\/p>\r\n

Acts of abuse do not necessarily involve physical injury. They can result in anything from developmental disabilities to mental health impairments. For example, forcing or allowing a child to use controlled substances can lead to a long-term substance abuse disorder. Exposing a child to domestic violence can damage a child\u2019s emotional and mental well-being.<\/p>\r\n

Reporting Child Abuse in the State of Delaware<\/b><\/h2>\r\n

As explained above, Delaware law requires certain professionals to report suspected child abuse. This is the case regardless of the child\u2019s age. Even if you don\u2019t qualify as a mandated reporter, you should still notify the authorities if you believe a child is suffering abuse or neglect.<\/p>\r\n

Discretion is important when deciding whether to report suspected acts of abuse. If you’re aware of an act that threatens or jeopardizes the welfare of a child, it’s likely you should report it as criminal child abuse.<\/p>\r\n

You have nothing to worry about as long as you file a report in good faith. The state will investigate any alleged child abuse cases and determine whether it needs to intervene to protect the child or punish the abuser.<\/p>\r\n

Child Abuse Laws in Delaware: Summary<\/b><\/h2>\r\n

State statutes and other laws can be difficult to understand. The table below highlights the basics of Delaware child abuse law<\/a>. and breaks them down .<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Delaware Child Abuse Laws Code Section<\/b><\/p>\r\n<\/th>\r\n

Del. Code Title 16 \u00a7901<\/a>, et seq.<\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>

What Constitutes Abuse Under Delaware Child Abuse Laws<\/b><\/p>\r\n<\/th>\r\n

The following are considered child abuse when inflicted on a minor:<\/p>\r\n

Mandatory Reporters<\/b><\/p>\r\n<\/th>\r\n

The following individuals must report<\/a> suspected child abuse to law enforcement:<\/p>\r\n

Basis of Report of Abuse\/Neglect<\/b><\/p>\r\n<\/th>\r\n

If a mandated reporter knows or reasonably suspects child abuse or neglect<\/a>, they must file a report with the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families<\/a><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>

Where To File a Child Abuse Report in Delaware<\/b><\/p>\r\n<\/th>\r\n

Division of Family Services<\/a><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>

Penalty for Failure To Report or False Reporting<\/b><\/p>\r\n<\/th>\r\n

Fines of up to $1,000 and\/or 15 days in jail<\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>\r\n

Disclaimer<\/b>: State laws are subject to change. While we strive to provide the most current information, consult a <\/i>criminal defense lawyer<\/i><\/a> or family lawyer to confirm your state\u2019s child abuse laws.<\/i><\/p>\r\n

Delaware Child Abuse Laws: Do You Need Legal Help?<\/b><\/h2>\r\n

The physical, psychological, and emotional effects of child abuse can be extreme. You should always report suspected child abuse cases<\/a> to the authorities<\/a> as soon as possible. It can make the difference between the child suffering further abuse and having a healthy childhood.<\/p>\r\n

For more information about this topic, visit FindLaw\u2019s child abuse<\/a> section. You can also reach out to a Delaware criminal defense attorney<\/a> or family law attorney.<\/p>\r\n

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