What persons are mandated by the state to report suspected child abuse or neglect and what are the penalties for failure to report?
Colorado Revised Statute §19-3-304 requires the following persons (based on profession) to report suspected child abuse or neglect:


  • Physicians, surgeons, physicians in training, child health associates, medical examiners, coroners, dentists, osteopaths, optometrists, chiropractors, podiatrists, nurses, hospital personnel, dental hygienists, physical therapists, pharmacists and registered dieticians

  • Public or private school officials or employees

  • Social workers, Christian Science practitioners, mental health professionals, psychologists, professional counselors and marriage and family therapists

  • Veterinarians, peace officers, firefighters or victim's advocates

  • Commercial film and photographic print processors

  • Counselors, marriage and family therapists and psychotherapists

  • Clergy members, including:


    • Priests

    • Rabbis

    • Duly ordained, commissioned, or licensed ministers of a church

    • Members of religious orders

    • Recognized leaders of any religious bodies



  • Workers in the state department of human services

  • Commercial film and photographic print processors when they have knowledge of or observe any film, photograph, videotape, negative or slide depicting a child engaged in an act of sexual conduct.




These persons are required to make a report:


  • When they have reasonable cause to know or suspect child abuse or neglect

  • When they have observed a child being subjected to circumstances or conditions that would reasonably result in abuse or neglect




Any mandatory reporter who willfully fails to report as required by § 19-3-304(1): Commits a Class 3 misdemeanor, shall be punished as provided by law, and shall be liable for damages proximately caused.

Show All Answers

1. At what age is it appropriate to leave my child at home alone?
2. What constitutes child abuse and/or neglect?
3. Is homelessness a reason to remove a child from his or her parents?
4. If I make a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, will my identity be protected?
5. Can I make an anonymous report of child abuse or neglect?
6. What persons are mandated by the state to report suspected child abuse or neglect and what are the penalties for failure to report?
7. When would it be necessary to remove a child from his or her home?
8. What is a Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)?
9. What is a guardian ad litem?