Pennsylvania Child Abuse Laws
By Lyle Therese A. Hilotin-Lee, J.D. | Legally reviewed by Laura Temme, Esq. | Last reviewed April 10, 2025
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Pennsylvania’s child abuse laws encompass physical, mental abuse, sexual assault or exploitation, and neglect of children under 18. These laws designate certain professionals as mandatory reporters, including healthcare providers, school employees, and clergy. Failure to report suspected abuse can result in fines and imprisonment, with severe penalties for repeated offenses or false reports. Reporting suspected abuse is crucial and protected under state law, ensuring the safety and welfare of children.
Pennsylvania child abuse cases are covered by both the family and criminal codes. The Commonwealth includes various types of violence or neglect committed against children under 18 years of age in its definition of child abuse.
Child abuse includes acts of physical and mental abuse, sexual assault or exploitation, and child neglect. Physical abuse charges also often include assault and battery.
State law also requires certain adults to be mandatory reporters of child abuse and neglect. If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, report it to the Department of Human Services' Office of Children, Youth, and Families (OCYF) right away.
Pennsylvania Child Abuse Statutes
Child abuse laws vary by state. In Pennsylvania, Title 23 primarily governs the legal framework for child abuse and neglect. This legal framework applies statewide, including regulations for the OCYF.
The table below summarizes Pennsylvania's child abuse laws.
Code Section |
Pennsylvania Statutes Title 23 Pa.C.S.A. Domestic Relations § 6303, et seq. |
Definition of child abuse |
Section 6303(b.1) defines child abuse as the intentional, knowing, or reckless doing any of the following:
|
Mandatory reporters |
Pennsylvania state law requires certain professionals to report suspected abuse and neglect. They often have direct contact with the child or are responsible for the child’s welfare or medical care. The following people are mandated reporters:
Anyone who is in direct contact with children as a part of their job is likely also a mandatory reporter. |
Failure to report |
The Child Protective Services Law in Pennsylvania provides fines and penalties for those who fail to report suspected cases of child abuse or knowingly make false reports of child abuse.
|
False reporting |
|
Related Statutes |
Pennsylvania Statutes Title 18, § 4304: Endangering Welfare of Children |
What Can CPS Do and Not Do In Pennsylvania?
County agencies responsible for Child Protective Services (CPS) in Pennsylvania work within defined legal boundaries. For instance, they are able to:
- Investigate reports of suspected cases of child abuse
- Conduct an interview of a child or children at school without parental permission
- Request for medical records and school documents
- Create safety plans with families
- File a petition to the courts for protective orders
- Coordinate with the local law enforcement authorities
- Refer to families for support services
However, Child Protection Services also has limitations. CPS cannot:
- Enter homes without a court order
- Remove children from the family home or custody without proper legal authority
- Conduct physical examination of the child without parental consent
- Force participation in child services
- Share details of cases with unauthorized third parties
- Determine custody arrangements between parents
- Override custody orders
A family law attorney can help you protect your parental rights in CPS proceedings.
Reporting Child Abuse
You should file a report when there is reasonable cause to suspect that abuse occurred. Mandatory reporters can file their report with the National Childhelp Hotline at 1.800.4.A.CHILD (1.800.422.4453). You can also contact Pennsylvania's ChildLine, a free hotline that receives reports of cases of child abuse or neglect. ChildLine is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
For emergencies, it is best to contact your local law enforcement authority. Call 911 if anyone is in immediate danger.
Pennsylvania law protects good-faith reporters from liability. You do not need to have an absolute proof of child abuse. A reasonable cause to believe that abuse occurred or occurs is sufficient. Advocacy groups can also work alongside mandatory reporters to ensure the child’s safety.
Charged with Violating Pennsylvania Child Abuse Laws? Contact a Lawyer
Child abuse allegations can carry serious consequences. These cases can affect your visitation rights, custody arrangements, and your relationship with your children. It could also affect your work as you may face restrictions on working with children.
Whether you are a parent of the child or an individual facing child abuse charges, it is best to contact a lawyer. They can help evaluate your case and explain your legal rights and options.
A family law attorney can guide you through child protective services proceedings and family court matters. They can help you protect your parental rights and consider your child's best interest.
A criminal defense attorney can help you defend yourself against criminal charges. They'll protect your constitutional rights and help you achieve a better outcome than going it alone.
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 Pennsylvania attorneys offer free consultations.
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