Az cps laws. § 13-3620 Any mandated reporter who reasonably believes that a minor is the victim of abuse or neglect shall report immediately to a peace officer, to the Department of Child Safety (DCS), or to a Tribal law enforcement or social services agency for any Indian minor who resides on an Indian reservation. Sep 8, 2021 路 If you know or have reason to believe one of your students has been the victim of child abuse or neglect, Arizona law requires that you report it to Department of Child Safety, the police or sheriff’s department, or the Arizona Department of Education (if the suspected abuser has a certificate). Sep 11, 2025 路 No state law or departmental policy existed to justify Child Protective Services workers marking all those cases “not for investigation,” the report by the Child Advocate Response Evaluation Explore key insights on Arizona's ARS §13-3623 child abuse laws with Tamou Law Group PLLC. 8-809, requires DCS to provide information on parents’ rights pursuant to A. Learn more and visit the: complaints webpage link. DCS may talk to the child who is the subject of the report, his/her siblings and any child living in the home with the child, without prior written consent of the parent, guardian or custodian. The court may provide a victim with written information about available community resources related to domestic violence. The court may request or order the services of the department of child safety if the court believes that a child may be the victim of child abuse or neglect as defined in section 8-201. Arizona Department of Child Safety Team members meet together with family to explain their roles, and to determine which agency will provide what resources to the family. Mar 11, 2025 路 Learn about Arizona child neglect and child abandonment laws at FindLaw, including potential penalties for a conviction and more. Mandated reporters are defined in Arizona statute. Department of Child Safety (DCS) provides this secure website for mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect to report non-emergency concerns, as authorized by ARS 13-3620. Safe Haven Newborn SB1114 - Child Abuse Hotline Required Posting Arizona Department of Child Safety Phone: Child Abuse Hotline 1-888-767-2445 CLICK to Report Child Abuse or Neglect 馃摓DCS Directory Read our website in: Reports required of this statute should be made to either the local law enforcement agency (911) or child protective services (1-888-SOS-CHILD). Can parents involved in CPS cases in Arizona request a lawyer if they cannot afford one? Yes, parents involved in CPS (Child Protective Services) cases in Arizona have the right to request a lawyer if they cannot afford one. Apr 7, 2025 路 A child abuse reporting law Gov. If you suspect child abuse or neglect, contact the Arizona Child Abuse Hotline at 1-888-SOS-CHILD (1-888-767-2445). Arizona's laws about child protection are contained in the Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 8, Sections 2-5. The Department of Child Safety works to protect children and support families across the entire state of Arizona, with satellite offices in both rural and urban communities. Stat. Copies of both these laws are included in the Appendix. Abuse of a child relates to circumstances in which the child is put into a situation which is likely to result in serious injury or death by the person who is meant to care for them. As a result, individuals charged with child abuse often face a number of both immediate and long-lasting consequences, from significant fines to serious jail time and other penalties like loss of child custody. Individual Responsibility to Report Citation: Rev. If the report concerns a person who is not the parent, guardian or custodian of the minor, the report is made to the police. Links to Arizona social services laws and regulations; AZ family rights. Everyone should report signs that indicate a child, an individual with developmental disabilities, or other vulnerable adult may be the victim of abuse, neglect and/or exploitation Arizona Adult Protective Services (APS) is a program within the DES Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) and is responsible for investigating allegations of abuse, exploitation and neglect of vulnerable adults. If this is an emergency, please call 911. In Arizona, child abuse can carry penalties similar to or even more severe than those for child abandonment, depending on the circumstances. Katie Hobbs signed a bill into law that requires more school staff to report any suspicions of child abuse. Get experienced legal support at 623-321-4699. For other situations, Arizona and national hotlines are available for reporting. The state of Arizona recognizes this fundamental right, and therefore has a robust set of laws that protect parental rights to direct a child’s upbringing, education, and health care. § 13-3620 and A. Parent’s Guide to the Arizona Department of Child Safety If you are reading this, you are most likely involved with the Department of Child Safety (DCS), or perhaps you would like to know more about Arizona’s Department of Child Safety. Dec 16, 2024 路 Explore the intricacies of Arizona’s laws on child and vulnerable adult abuse, including charges, penalties, and legal exceptions. 03: Domestic Violence and Child Abuse today. YOU may A. Learn Who is Required to Report Child Abuse or Neglect in Arizona from the Experienced Arizona Family Law Attorneys at Hildebrand Law, PC. On initial contact with the Department of Child Safety, you as the parent, guardian or custodian under investigation for an allegation of abuse or Dec 16, 2024 路 Explore Arizona’s child abuse laws, including criteria for charges, penalties, and potential legal defenses. 13-3623. Essential information for mandatory reporters on recognizing and reporting child abuse in Maricopa County. Applied Filters: All State Statutes Kinship Guardianship as a Permanency Option - District of Columbia This publication reviews State laws and policies that allow a family member or other person with close ties to a child who has been placed in out-of-home care to become that's child's permanent guardian. Codes and Statutes › Arizona Revised Statutes › 2024 Arizona Revised Statutes › Title 8 - Child Safety Jun 26, 2017 路 The Scottsdale, Arizona Child Abuse Attorneys at Hildebrand Law, PC Discuss the Unsettling Basics of Child Abuse laws in Arizona. § 13-3623) and how courts determine reasonable force. Use our free directory to instantly connect with verified CPS attorneys. Click on the Chapter titles below to read the full text. The Arizona Department of Child Safety works with families when a child has been identified as a possible victim of child abuse or neglect. Our Vision: Children thrive in family environments free from abuse and neglect. May 28, 2025 路 A new law clarifies who in Arizona schools must report suspected child abuse or neglect to law enforcement. Apr 8, 2025 路 Arizona's Senate Bill 1437 enhances child safety laws, mandating direct reporting of abuse by educators and others, with whistleblower protections. Contact Tamou Law for guidance. This information, as well as information outlining parental rights under Arizona law, must be provided in writing and the CPS worker is required to make reasonable efforts to receive written acknowledgment from the person that the information was received. However, few parents or guardians are requesting one review and CPS needs to analyze the impact of the other one. The attendees will be able to identify: Relevant laws and Attorney General’s opinions that guide child abuse reporting in Arizona Links to State and Tribal Child Welfare Law and Policy - Arizona Date: August 2024 Where abuse ends and healing begins. ICWA was passed in response to public and private agencies removing high numbers of American Indian children from their homes for reasons other than child neglect or child abuse. Relevant laws and Attorney General’s opinions that guide child abuse reporting in Arizona Who must report What must be reported When to report How do I report child abuse? The Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) is the statewide reporting agency for child abuse. Law Enforcement and Department of Child Safety Suspected child abuse or neglect may be reported to the police, to Department of Child Safety or both. The role of CPS is to ensure the safety of children while maintaining the integrity of the family. Arizona's Statewide Toll-Free Child Abuse Hotline Phone: 1-888-SOS-CHILD Phone: 1-888-767-2445 Arizona's Statewide Toll-Free Child Abuse Hotline Phone: 1-888-SOS-CHILD (1-888-767-2445) DCS offers a series of steps to address and resolve complaints or disagreements. Suspect Abuse? Report it here. Could it be made clearer still? In order to protect children, Arizona statute requires that school personnel are mandatory reporters. With over a decade of experience, we specialize in representing parents and relatives of children who have become entangled in the DCS system. Apr 12, 2018 路 Understand the system | How Arizona's child-protective services are supposed to work Mary Jo Pitzl | The Republic | azcentral. Jul 16, 2024 路 Justin Palmer Law Group sheds light on civil rights violations by CPS. Jun 14, 2025 路 What CPS Can and Cannot Do in Arizona Understand the legal framework governing Arizona's Department of Child Safety. If an individual listed in subsection A of this section is an employee or agent of a health care institution as defined in section 36-401 and the health care institution's procedures require that all suspected abuse, neglect and exploitation be reported to adult protective services as required by law, the individual is deemed to have complied with the requirements of subsection A of this Jan 3, 2021 路 General Information The laws and rules contained in this section govern licensure and renewal requirements, the complaint process and the disciplinary process used when a licensed professional violates professional practice requirements. This guide clarifies the agency's authority and a family's rights during an investigation. azleg. I. Arizona law requires certain persons who suspect that a child has received non-accidental injury or has been neglected to report their concerns to DCS or local law enforcement (ARS §13-3620. The hotline offers free, confidential crisis intervention, information, and referrals to local emergency, social service, and support resources - including the Arizona Department of Child Safety, when necessary. H. The purpose of this training is to provide an overview of Arizona’s mandatory reporting laws. Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-3620 outlines requirements for reporting child abuse Arizona Revised Statutes § 15-514 outlines requirements for reporting immoral or unprofessional conduct to the Arizona State Board of Education Who? Being able to recognize the signs of abuse, neglect or exploitation of a child, an individual with developmental disabilities, or other vulnerable adult is extremely important in protecting members of our society. Facing Arizona child abuse charges (ARS 13-3623)? This comprehensive guide explains the law, potential penalties, and the vital importance of legal counsel. ) 46-454 (A-D), the following individuals are required to report or cause reports to be made to a peace officer or to the Adult Protective Services Central Intake Unit. Criminal Code § 13-3623. Apr 1, 2022 路 CPS/Child Protective Services Drug Testing Laws In Arizona To address the increasing problem of substance abuse amongst children, a statewide initiative to educate the public better and enhance the state's programs and services regarding children, youth, and families involved with CPS has been developed in Arizona. 8-809. If you have been accused of child abuse Mandated Reporters According to Arizona Revised Statute (A. When allegations of child abuse or neglect, exploitation or abandonment indicate the need Adult Protective Services APS receives and investigates reports of abuse, neglect, self-neglect, exploitation, isolation/abandonment for vulnerable adults and elders within the jurisdiction of the Navajo Nation. The Department of Child Safety (DCS) is usually the party who requests the state file a dependency petition to remove the children from the custody of the parents. This page is provided as a service to foster voluntary compliance with laws and regulations. Child or vulnerable adult abuse; emotional abuse; classification; exceptions; definitions Sep 18, 2003 路 The law now specifies that in cases of abuse that DO NOT involve parents, guardians or custodians, mandated reporters are directed to report to LAW ENFORCEMENT ONLY -- HOWEVER, victims are best served when both law enforcement and CPS are involved. Justia › U. Katie Hobbs signed into law on Monday adds more thorough protections for students in Arizona's public schools. Under circumstances likely to produce death or serious physical injury, any person who causes a child or vulnerable adult to suffer physical injury or, having the care or custody of a child or vulnerable adult, who causes or permits the person or health of the child or vulnerable adult to be injured or who causes or permits a child or vulnerable adult to be placed in a situation where the See full list on shouselaw. Under Title 8, Chapter 10, Article 1 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, CPS is obligated to investigate every report of a potentially abused or neglected child and is empowered to immediately remove that child from a harmful home. The Child and Family Protection Division is full of compassionate and hardworking attorneys who provide high-quality legal representation to promote the safety, health and self-sufficiency of children, vulnerable adults and A report made to the child abuse hotline that is maintained by the department must include the name and address or contact information for the person making the report. The minor's age and the nature and extent of the minor's abuse, child abuse, physical injury or neglect, including any evidence of previous abuse, child abuse, physical injury or neglect. YOUR RIGHTS Arizona law, A. Arizona received an overall rating of strength during the Arizona 2023 Child and Family Services Review (CFSR) Round 4 for Item 31: How well is the agency’s responsiveness to the community system functioning statewide to ensure that the state engages in ongoing consultation with tribes, consumers, service providers, foster care providers, juvenile court, and other agencies. § 15-514. This online version of the Arizona Revised Statutes is primarily maintained for legislative drafting purposes and reflects the version of law that is effective on January 1st of the year following the most recent legislative session. 11. § 13-3620, who must report suspected child abuse, potential criminal penalties, and legal defenses. Any person who reasonably believes that a minor is or has been the victim of physical injury, abuse, child abuse, a reportable offense or neglect that appears to have been inflicted on the minor by other than accidental means or that is not explained by the available medical history as being accidental in nature, or who reasonably believes that there has been a denial or deprivation of The minor's age The nature and extent of the minor's abuse, child abuse, physical injury, or neglect, including any evidence of previous abuse, child abuse, physical injury, or neglect Any other information that the person believes might be helpful in establishing the cause of the abuse, child abuse, physical injury, or neglect What is a Mandated Reporter? Mandated reporters are required by law, as defined by ARS 13-3620, to report all concerns of child abuse or neglect. Preface Protecting the health and welfare of students is the most important and fundamental responsibility of every professional educator. Our Mission: Successfully engage children and families to ensure safety, strengthen families, and achieve permanency. These laws include important guidelines on reporting allegations of child abuse and Mandated Reporting Reporting Concerns of Child Abuse and Neglect in Arizona As such, it is important that educators and faith leaders especially know their role as mandated reporters and know when and when not to report child abuse and neglect. For all emergency child abuse and neglect reports, call: 1-888-SOS-CHILD (1-888-767-2445) If your concern involves an emergency situation, call 911 immediately. To support The legislation, passed this week during a special session of the Arizona Legislature, statutorily creates and funds the new Department of Child Safety (DCS) – a permanent, stand-alone agency with the express mission of safeguarding Arizona’s abused and neglected children – and mandates transparency and accountability. Child Physical Abuse and Child Sexual Assault Units Both units fall under the Special Victims Section, Central Investigations Division of the Tucson Police Department. The potential penalty is up to six months in jail Apr 10, 2025 路 PHOENIX – The Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) is proud to announce the launch of the Turquoise Alert system, a new statewide initiative - Learn more on Arizona Revised Statutes Section 25-403. S. Also contained is vital information regarding state resources available to both traditional public schools and charter schools. The hotline should also follow-up with notification to law enforcement. A). Get informed today! Mar 18, 2025 路 Understand the legal standards and procedures CPS follows for child removal in Arizona, including parental rights and options for challenging decisions. Learn how DCS investigations work and how to protect your family from the possible removal of your children. 18. Compare the best CPS lawyers near Phoenix, AZ today. This is known as the “right to counsel” and it is guaranteed by both federal and state laws. Jan 4, 2017 路 Learn About the Standard of Care to Report Child Abuse in Arizona from the Experienced Arizona Child Abuse Attorneys at Hildebrand Law, PC. The Child Safety Specialist will talk to Dec 18, 2024 路 Duty to Report Child Abuse and Neglect Arizona law mandates that certain individuals report any reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect. . Information on State statutes related to a variety of child welfare topics, adoption and guardianship assistance, adoption contacts for Arizona child welfare officials, adoption agencies, support groups, related organizations, and universities and colleges with master's or bachelor's of social work degrees is presented in the search The presentation above is designed to guide Arizona’s professional educators through the process of reporting allegations of child abuse and professional misconduct to the appropriate authorities. 15-245. Rev. You can find the applicable law here: https://www. Indian Child Welfare Act From the outset of any Department of Child Safety (DCS) investigation, we are compelled by law to inquire if a child (or children) is of American Indian heritage or ancestry. These can be found online at https://www. Below, we will answer some of the most common questions we receive. Generally, if the suspected abuse is committed by a family member or legal guardian, the report should be made to child protective services. For issues or concerns with a DCS case, please contact the DCS Customer: Yes, I need to know what the Arizona CPS laws are regarding three children in a room, with one being a 15-year-old female, a 9-year-old boy, and my 4-year-old son. The laws and Rules governing the Department are identified in the Legal Authority section of the policies. " The potential penalty is up to 1 1/2 years in prison and a substantial fine. Jan 13, 2025 路 Child Protective Services Drug Testing Policy: What You Need to Know Understand the nuances of CPS drug testing policies, including legal authority, testing methods, and implications for privacy and court use. If you have questions or are facing charges, Grand Canyon Law Group can help—call (480) 573-6441 today. The Arizona DCS is known for its aggressive What if I fail to report and are there legal protections for school employees filing mandatory reports? The penalties for failing to report: It is a Class 6 felony to fail to report "reportable offenses. If you want to learn more about reporting suspected abuse or neglect, watch our 45-minute mandatory reporter training that explains what to look for and how to respond. In this article, our family law attorneys will cover what Arizona Protective Services can and cannot do. When law enforcement or the Department of Child Safety believe a child may be experiencing abuse, the child is brought to the Children’s Advocacy Center—a safe, trauma informed, child-focused environment—by a non-offending family member or caregiver. The Attorney General’s Office works closely with the Department of Economic Security and the Department of Child Safety to protect children, their safety and well-being. Get Answers to the Question Are Child Abuse Reports Confidential in Arizona from the Experienced Arizona Child Abuse Attorneys at Hildebrand Law, PC. National Center for Child Abuse and Child Neglect (NCCAN) defined sexual abuse as the involvement of dependent, developmentally immature children and adolescents in sexual activities that they do not fully comprehend, to which they are unable to give informed consent, or that violate the social taboos of family roles. A report made to the child abuse hotline that is maintained by the Department of Child Safety must include the name and address or contact information for the person making the report. Stay informed and know your rights when dealing with child protective services. gov/ars/13/03620. Mandated Reporter Online Submission Department of Child Safety (DCS) provides this secure website for mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect to report non-emergency concerns, as authorized by ARS 13-3620. This includes contact with a minor of a sexual natur What is ICWA, and why was it passed? The Indian Child Welfare Act is a federal law passed in 1978 by the United States Congress. Reports must be made without delay to Apr 7, 2025 路 How Arizona’s new ‘mandatory reporting’ law aims to protect children from abuse Gov. Law › U. Please Be Advised: Department of Child Safety (DCS) information is confidential and shall not be released, except as specified by law (Arizona Revised Statutes 8-807 and 41-1959). htm Oct 22, 2024 路 A. Apr 11, 2018 路 In Arizona, teachers, doctors and social workers are among those professionals who under state law must report suspected child abuse or neglect. If, however, the report concerns The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline is dedicated to the prevention of child abuse. Call (480) 573-6441 today. R. In Arizona, all child abuse reports are accepted through the Arizona Visit Our Child Abuse Laws in Arizona FAQ Page for Answers to All of Your Questions About Child Abuse Laws in Arizona from Hildebrand Law, PC. Answering Your Questions On Arizona Child Abuse Laws We know you might have hundreds of different questions regarding child abuse laws in Arizona. How DCS Investigates Reports of Abuse and Neglect Arizona law requires DCS to investigate reports of child abuse or neglect by a parent, guardian or custodian. Is it legal to hit kids in Arizona? Apr 8, 2025 路 Governor Katie Hobbs signed a new law that will change the way possible child abuse is reported in public schools. You can make a report to the toll-free Arizona Child Abuse Hotline at 1-888-767-2445 (1-888-SOS-CHILD) or contact your local law enforcement office. Anything else I should know? child abuse, physical injury or neglect. Aug 15, 2025 路 Child abuse, on the other hand, encompasses a broader range of harmful behaviors, including physical violence, emotional neglect, and endangerment through actions or inactions. Consequently, it is imperative that all school personnel be educated and hold fast to Arizona’s laws regarding the safety of children in Arizona’s classrooms. To do this, the law allows DCS to talk to alleged victims and their siblings without parental permission. Our Conclusion Child Removal—State law provides for two administrative reviews when CPS decides to remove a child from home. Mar 5, 2016 路 Arizona CPS - lawyers to help fight CPS in the state of Arizona. The Department updates it policies on an ongoing basis to respond to new or revised Federal and State laws, changes in accepted standards of practice, and state initiatives. Jan 1, 2024 路 Arizona Revised Statutes Title 13. The reports should be made immediately by phone or online. Arizona Revised Statutes §13-3620 provides the legal definition: Any person who reasonably believes that a minor is or has been the victim of physical injury, abuse, child abuse, a reportable offense or neglect that appears to have been inflicted on the minor by other than accidental means or that is not explained by the available medical history as being accidental in nature or who Ariz. Need to Report Child Abuse? If you suspect child abuse, your immediate action can make a crucial difference. Explore Arizona's child abuse laws, statutes, reporting obligations, and consequences. Mar 15, 2017 路 Arizona law requires that ALL adults responsible for the care or treatment of a minor IMMEDIATELY report any “reasonable belief or suspicion” that a child (anyone under 18 years of age) is the victim of sexual abuse, neglect or emotional abuse. Understand the legal framework and protections. When facing a family law matter such as divorce or child custody, your situation may intersect with the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS). Jun 22, 2025 路 Prosecutors and law enforcement in Arizona tend to heavily pursue criminal cases involving child safety, especially cases of alleged child abuse. Arizona Child Abuse Hotline 1-888-SOS-CHILD (1-888-767-2445) A report of suspected child abuse, neglect, exploitation or abandonment is a responsible attempt to protect a child. Additionally we provide free mandatory reporter trainings online for those required to report child abuse. Oct 19, 2023 路 Child Abuse Laws in Arizona In Arizona, child abuse laws, which also govern the abuse of vulnerable adults in equal measure, are detailed in A. Infant Care Plans The Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) amended the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) to require states to develop plans of safe care in response to prenatal drug exposure. The law requires the Department of Child Safety to investigate reports of suspected child abuse or neglect by a parent, guardian or custodian. Child abuse laws in Arizona are strict, and the consequences of a conviction are life-changing. Child abuse charges are among the most serious and emotionally charged offenses a person can face in Arizona. This duty is outlined in section 13-3620, specifying that healthcare professionals, peace officers, and school personnel must report if they believe a minor has been subjected to abuse, physical injury, or neglect. The Department of Child Safety Records Request CSO-1036A and CSO-1036AS forms are to be used by persons who believe that a report has been made about them, a parent, guardian, custodian, a child, a person who is the When does discipline cross the line into child abuse? Learn about Arizona child abuse laws (A. Grand Canyon Law Group has former prosecutors ready to fight for you. Jul 31, 2008 路 Child Protective Services (CPS) is a part of Division of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) within the Arizona State Department of Economic Security and works on behalf of children and families of Arizona. The Infant Care Plan was developed by the state of Arizona in response to CARA and CAPTA. However, the laws surrounding these charges is complex, and it is essential for anyone accused to understand the potential Jul 21, 2021 路 Wondering when does discipline become child abuse? Read on to learn what must be proven in a child abuse case & what to do if you're being accused. The Office of Child Welfare Investigations (OCWI) shall assess, respond to or investigate all Criminal Conduct Reports, which shall be a priority, but not otherwise exercise the authority of a peace Reporting Statutes School personnel are required to report allegations of child abuse under two Arizona laws: A. Jan 9, 2025 路 Learn how domestic violence laws work in Arizona, including legal procedures, penalties, and available support resources. § 13-3623 - Child or vulnerable adult abuse; emotional abuse; classification; exceptions; definitions from 2024 Arizona Revised Statutes Law enforcement agencies statewide are critical partners in protecting children; they ensure that perpetrators of child abuse or neglect are held accountable for the harm they cause to children. Specifically, federal law and Arizona state laws require the Department of Child Applicants and employees working in direct service positions with (or providing care for) children or vulnerable adults in Arizona can now use the Arizona CBC web portal to request background checks from the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) Central Registry and the Adult Protective Services (APS) Registry, and receive status updates on How does state law define child abuse and neglect for reporting purposes? Mandated reporters must report physical injury, abuse, child abuse, a reportable offense, or neglect as defined by Arizona statute 13-3620 and legal guidance interpreting the statute. Whether you are facing false accusations or need legal guidance, having an experienced attorney can make all the difference. A dependency is an assertion by the state or a third party that a parent is unfit or unable to care for their child or children. To report child abuse or child sexual assault, call 911. DCS may request removal based upon: Abandonment Neglect Parents' inability to control the child To whom and when do I file a report? Time frame for filing a mandatory report to law enforcement and CPS Verbal mandatory reports are filed immediately with: Law enforcement (911) Child Protective Services (1-888-767-2445) Verbal reports are followed by written mandatory reports that must be submitted to the appropriate agency within 72 hours. It is a misdemeanor to fail to report child abuse and neglect. A report is required when a mandatory reporter reasonably believes that a child is or has been the victim of physical injury, abuse or child abuse, a reportable offense (including child pornography, child sex trafficking, or incest), or neglect that appears to have been inflicted on the child by other than accidental means or that is not The Department shall investigate all Reports containing criminal conduct allegations of child abuse with the appropriate law enforcement agency. 01 and other information to assist parents and guardians in understanding the process of removal of a child from their home. Our child neglect defense lawyers in Phoenix are dedicated to achieving the best possible results for clients, offering the support and guidance they need during this difficult time. Under Arizona law, you must report suspects abuse or neglect to DCS or law enforcement. At Suzuki Law Offices, our Phoenix violent crimes lawyers defend people against charges of child abuse in Arizona. In Arizona, this agency is called Child Protective Services. gov/. Reporting If you suspect abuse, it is your duty to report it, especially if you are a mandatory reporter identified by the Arizona Revised Statute § 13-3620. "DCS report" means a communication received by the centralized intake hotline that alleges child abuse or neglect and that meets the criteria for a report as prescribed in section 8-455. If the Department of Child Safety (DCS), formerly known as CPS (Child Protective Services), has taken your children from your care or is threatening to do so, Moshier Law is here to provide assistance. Under circumstances likely to produce death or serious physical injury, any person who causes a child or vulnerable adult to suffer physical injury or, having the care or custody of a child or vulnerable adult, who causes or permits the person or health of the child or vulnerable adult to be injured or who causes or permits a child or vulnerable adult to be placed in a situation where the The Department of Child Safety (DCS) and the State of Arizona Ombudsman-Citizens’ Aide Office Various statutes in the Arizona Revised Statutes Titles 8 and 41, require the Department of Child Safety (DCS) to permit the State of Arizona Ombudsman-Citizens’ Aide Office unrestricted access to all DCS records, with few exceptions. Under ARS 13-3623, the penalties for felony child abuse are severe, reflecting the state’s commitment to protecting its most vulnerable citizens—children. Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell said up until this point, many child Learn About Child Abuse Laws in Arizona and How to Stop Child Abuse from the Award-Winning Arizona Family Law Attorneys at Hildebrand Law, PC. The Infant Care Plan describes the services and supports that will be provided to Learn about Arizona’s mandatory reporting laws under A. In ARS 13-3623 child abuse defense in Arizona, it’s essential to note that the law intersects with other statutes, like Domestic Violence and ARS 13-705 for dangerous crimes against children Domestic Violence if the victim is under 15. DCS makes diligent efforts to work with families and tribes to identify children who are subject to the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA). Please review the following to become familiar with the reporting process, which will include a video and learning materials: If the call involves alleged child abuse or neglect by a person other than a parent, guardian or custodian which was inflicted without the knowledge of the parent, guardian or custodian, the hotline should encourage the caller to contact law enforcement. If you believe the child is safe and the incident happened several days, weeks, or months ago, call the Tucson Police Department non-emergency number at 520-791-4444, the Arizona’s Mandatory Reporting Laws Created by the Arizona Prosecuting Attorneys’ Advisory Council (APAAC) with the assistance of the Arizona Department of Child Safety, pursuant to A. Sep 15, 2025 路 DCS rules The Arizona Department of Child Safety rules are published in the Arizona Administrative Code, Title 21. DCS: A guide for parents' rights. com Child abuse prevention begins with all of us. B. 2021 Arizona Revised Statutes Title 13 - Criminal Code § 13-3623 - Child or vulnerable adult abuse; emotional abuse; classification; exceptions; definitions The Arizona Department of Child Safety provides services and resources to strengthen families and ensure the safety, permanency and well-being of children 10. This page presents resources and information about Arizona. Understand your rights and options. For non-emergency reports, the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) also provides a secure website for mandated reporters to report concerns. com Apr 4, 2025 路 Findlaw explains Arizona's child abuse laws, including types of child abuse and neglect and the duty of mandated reporters in Arizona. Jul 13, 2023 路 Under a new law, effective September 1, 2023, CPS will now have to read a sort of "CPS Miranda Rights" to parents or risk the exclusion of all evidence. clnodz ydpm rfpkw mgqqg vkljzo jusrm nxm iiuyov evsib vmqop