All of our trained Advocates are mandatory reporters.  Our services are mostly confidential unless there is a report of child abuse or neglect.  If abuse or neglect of a person under the age of 18 is told to an Advocate, they are required by law to report the abuse to law enforcement or child welfare.

What is a mandatory reporter?

A professional who is obligated by law to report known or suspected incidents of child abuse and/or neglect. Mandatory reporters are a part of the safety net that protects children and youth and have the ability to provide lifesaving help to child victims in our community. It is a requirement of these professionals to report any suspicion so that there can be an investigation done by local child protective services.

Who is a mandatory reporter?

The state law C.R.S. 19-3-304 outlines a list of professionals who are required by law to report child abuse and/or neglect. Here are a few of the professionals who are mandated reporters by law:

1. Physician or surgeon
2. Dentist
3. Chiropractor
4. Mental health professionals
5. Registered nurses
6. Public or Private school employees
7. Social workers, child care providers and employees
8. Juvenile parole and probation officers
9. Director, coach, assistant coach, or athletic program personnel employed by a private sports organization or program
10. Emergency medical service providers

These are a few examples of professionals that are mandated reporters. You can find the full list of mandated reporters online. The Colorado Department of Human Services offers more information on mandatory reporting.

Mandatory reporting of child abuse and neglect in Colorado: “If a mandated reporter suspects child abuse or neglect, they are required by Colorado law to call 844-CO-4-Kids or report the information to a local law enforcement agency.”