Memphis Child Advocacy Center

Responsibilities For Reporting


Tennessee law mandates ALL persons to report suspected cases of child abuse and neglect.

In Tennessee, if you have "reasonable cause to believe" a child is being abused or neglected you must report that suspicion to the state Department of Children's Services or law enforcement—and you are required by law to do it immediately. Failure to report is a misdemeanor which carries a sentence of up to three months imprisonment, a fine of up to $50, or both.

Know your school's rules
Individual schools may have their own reporting rules. Some may require the head teacher or principal be informed, who then will make the official report. Please note that should the higher administrator of your school fail to report, you are not released from your obligation to do so.

Reporting is a request for investigation. Do not attempt to conduct your own investigation. Report your suspicions to the proper authorities. It is the role of the state Department of Children's Services or law enforcement to investigate the report. However, all reports do not meet the criteria for investigation. If you suspect additional abuse after the initial report has been made, report that as well.

As a mandated reporter you are protected by the state in terms of liability and confidentiality. Reporters who "act in good faith" are immune from any civil or criminal charges which may result.

Follow your feelings
If you are unsure whether or not you have reasonable cause, go ahead and call. Borderline cases are of great concern—abuse occurs in approximately 50% of these cases if intervention does not take place. In 35% of these cases, the children will eventually be severely injured. Approximately 1.7% of these children will be killed.

Some guidelines suggested by many teachers are:

  • Resolve doubt in favor of the child.
  • Discuss your observations and concerns privately with other staff who know the child. Make sure no children can hear you.
  • Let the children in your care know they can talk to you.
  • If you sense a child is trying to tell you something, let the child know you will believe and help her/him with any problem.
  • Be direct. Go to a private place and ask gently if the child is having a problem with which he or she needs help.
  • Respect the child's privacy by not discussing the situation with others.
  • Believe the child who discloses. Children do not lie about sexual abuse.