NCBA WebLaw – Child Abuse

NCBA WebLaw – Child Abuse

The abuse of children is against the law. Any concerned person who has reasonable cause to suspect a child has been harmed or is a victim of child abuse or maltreatment by a parent or other person legally responsible for the child should report this information to the New York State Child Abuse and Maltreatment Register Public Hotline at 1-800-342-3720 at any time. The Hotline receives calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You do not need to have evidence of the abuse, just a reasonable suspicion that a child is being harmed, or have a concern for the child’s well-being or safety. Child abuse reports are kept confidential.

The report will be relayed to the local child protective service in the county Department of Social Services, and an investigation will begin within 24 hours. In Nassau County, it is the Child Protective Services, commonly known as “CPS”. The CPS worker must make a prompt and accurate determination to prevent any further harm to the child’s welfare. They will even make visits to the families in the evenings. Court action will be initiated when it is in the best interest of the child.

If you suspect that a child is in imminent danger, please call your local police department (911) immediately.

If you suspect your child has been physically or sexually abused, you may call the Coalition Against Child Abuse and Neglect at 516-747-2966 to obtain services for yourself and your child.

The information provided by the Nassau County Bar Association is not meant to serve as specific legal advice for a particular situation or as a substitute for consultation with a lawyer. If you require the services of a lawyer, you may call the Nassau County Lawyer Referral Service at (516) 747-4832, email referral@nassaubar.org, or go to www.nassaubar.org.

Return to index