Mandated Reporters of Child Abuse and Neglect

Certain individuals whose employment brings them into contact with children are required by law to report any suspected abuse or neglect or threatened abuse or neglect to a child seen in the course of their professional duties.

Persons making reports in good faith are immune from criminal or civil liability.  Persons required to report who intentionally fail to report suspected child abuse or neglect may be fined up to $1,000 or imprisoned up to 6 months or both.

Reporting Abuse and Neglect

Reports of alleged child abuse or neglect should be made to the county where the child or the child’s family resides. A person who is mandated to report suspected child abuse or neglect will be informed by the county what action, if any, was taken to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the child who is the subject of the report.

To find more information on the appropriate county department of social/human services to contact, visit the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families website.  

Reports can also be made to local law enforcement offices. 

Online Mandated Reporter Training Information can be found HERE.