Does Indiana Have a Mandatory Reporting Law for Domestic Violence?

Unlike a number of other states, Indiana does not have a broad mandatory reporting law that applies to domestic violence. Mandatory reporting laws typically require certain types of people (such as teachers, medical personnel, clergy, law enforcement, and others) to report suspected abuse to a state agency, such as an abuse hotline established by that state’s Department of Health. Some states make reporting mandatory for anybody who suspects that someone has been the victim of domestic abuse.

Indiana’s Limited Mandatory Reporting Laws

Indiana doesn’t go quite as far as the states mentioned above. Instead, reporting is required in two types of situations.

Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect

Indiana law requires anyone who suspects that a child is being abused or neglected to report the situation to the Indiana Department of Child Services or their local law enforcement agency. The requirement applies when the person “has reason to believe that a child is a victim of child abuse or neglect.” It doesn’t require certainty; it doesn’t require proof; it merely requires that the person have “a reason to believe” that abuse is taking place.

Failing to make a report of suspected child abuse or neglect can be charged with a Class B misdemeanor, which can result in up to 180 days in county jail and a $1000 fine.

When a Person Has Suffered Serious Wounds

The other reporting requirement is imposed on physicians and individuals in charge of a medical facility that treats patients suffering from certain specific types of wounds. In particular, these individuals must report:

• Bullet or gunshot wounds or powder burns;
• Any other injury “arising from or caused by the discharge of a firearm;”
• Wounds that are “likely to or may result in death” that were caused by or appear to have been caused by a “knife, ice pick, or other sharp or pointed instrument.”

Mandatory reporters who fail to follow this requirement can be charged with a Class C misdemeanor and face up to 60 days in county jail and a $500 fine.

Razumich & Associates Can Help Defend You if You’ve Been Reported for Suspected Abuse

No matter what the circumstances, if someone has reported you for the suspected child or spousal abuse of any type, you may be facing serious criminal charges. At Razumich & Associates, we understand the laws and procedures that apply in criminal cases in Indiana, and we defend clients charged with crimes all across the state. We understand that not everyone accused of a crime is guilty, but more importantly, we also understand that everyone charged with a crime deserves a strong defense.

Call Razumich & Associates today if you’ve been reported for suspected abuse or charged with a crime. We can be reached at 317-449-8661 or use our contact form to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys.