Michigan Child Abuse Laws
By Natalie Moritz | Legally reviewed by FindLaw Staff | Last reviewed March 12, 2025
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Child abuse in Michigan is defined under several degrees, each reflecting the severity of harm inflicted or risk posed to the child. Each degree carries specific legal penalties, escalating in severity from misdemeanors to potential life sentences for first-degree abuse.
Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse of a child is a serious crime in Michigan carrying criminal charges and severe penalties.
Understanding the statutes governing child abuse and neglect can be overwhelming. Contact a Michigan criminal defense attorney to learn more about what these laws mean and how they may apply to your situation.
This article overviews child abuse and neglect laws in Michigan, including definitions, mandatory reporting, and penalties. Use the links in the chart to see the full statutes related to these laws.
Child Abuse and Child Neglect in Michigan
Both child abuse and child neglect are illegal in Michigan. Child neglect means negligent treatment of a child, including the failure to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, or medical care.
Who is a Mandated Reporter in Michigan?
Most states have "mandatory reporter" laws, which require certain professionals (like doctors and teachers) with regular access to children to report signs of abuse to the proper authorities. Michigan child abuse law also lists the following professions as mandatory reporters:
- Dentists
- Social workers and other social services workers
- Childcare providers
- Mental health professionals
- Law enforcement officers
- Clergy members
See the statute for a full list of mandated reporters.
How To Report Abuse or Neglect in Michigan
Mandated reporters with reasonable cause to suspect child neglect or abuse must make a report immediately.
Report suspected abuse to 855-444-3911 or using Michigan’s online reporting system. If you report using the telephone hotline, you must also complete a written report using Form DHS-3200 within 72 hours of your oral report. If you use the online reporting system, filing Form DHS-3200 is not necessary.
Responsible Agency for Investigating Child Abuse Claims in the State of Michigan
The Children's Protective Services (CPS) is responsible for investigating allegations of child abuse and neglect. CPS also manages the state’s Central Registry, which contains names of perpetrators related to confirmed cases involving:
- Methamphetamine production
- Serious abuse or neglect
- Sexual abuse
- Sexual exploitation
- Select criminal convictions involving children
Michigan Child Abuse Laws at a Glance
The following chart summarizes Michigan child abuse laws and who the law designates as mandatory reporters. Follow the links for the full statutes.
See Child Abuse Overview for general information about this crime.
Statute | Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) Section 750.136b |
Related Statute(s) | Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) Section 722.61, et seq. Child Protection Law |
What Constitutes Child Abuse? | First degree child abuse: Knowingly or intentionally causing serious physical or mental harm. Second degree child abuse:
Third degree child abuse:
Fourth degree child abuse:
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Definitions of Child Abuse and Neglect | MCL Section 750.136b “Child abuse” means harm or threatened harm to a child's health or welfare that occurs through nonaccidental physical or mental injury, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, or maltreatment by a:
“Serious abuse or neglect” means a confirmed case of mental or physical injury or neglect to a child that involves any of the following:
|
Charges and Penalties | First degree child abuse is a felony punishable by a prison term up to and including life. Second degree child abuse is a felony punishable by not more than 10 years in prison for the first offense, and not more than 20 years in prison for subsequent offenses. Third degree child abuse is felony punishable by not more than two years in prison. Fourth degree child abuse is a misdemeanor punishable by not more than one year in prison. |
Mandatory Reporting Required By | Listed in Section 722.623 |
Penalties for Failure to Report or False Reporting | Failure to Report by Mandatory Reporter:
Intentionally Making a False Report:
|
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Michigan Child Abuse Laws: Related Resources
Use the links below to learn more about child abuse and neglect in Michigan:
- Michigan Law
- State Child Abuse Laws
- Child Abuse Penalties and Sentencing
- Michigan Department of Health and Human Services—Children’s Protective Services
- Prevent Child Abuse Michigan
Child Abuse Charge in Michigan? Get Legal Help
Child abuse is a serious crime carrying severe penalties, including jail time. You can also face other legal consequences, including losing your parental rights. If you've been charged with child abuse under Michigan's laws, it's in your best interests to speak to a local criminal defense attorney. An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Complex criminal defense situations usually require a lawyer
- Defense attorneys can help protect your rights
- A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Michigan attorneys offer free consultations.
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