Skip to content
When people suspect a child faces harm at home, they often feel unsure about what to do next. In Texas, the law makes it clear—anyone who believes a child is being abused or neglected must report it. CPS child neglect reporting gives the state a way to step in and protect children before the situation gets worse. Understanding how the process works helps you make the right decision when you see warning signs.
What Counts as Abuse or Neglect?
CPS investigates reports based on legal definitions set by the Texas Family Code. Abuse and neglect take many forms. Physical harm, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and failure to meet basic needs all fall under CPS’s authority.
Types of Abuse
- Physical abuse happens when a child suffers bodily injury through non-accidental force.
- Sexual abuse includes any sexual contact or behavior between a child and an adult or older child.
- Emotional abuse involves verbal threats, constant criticism, rejection, or exposure to domestic violence that affects a child’s mental health.
Types of Neglect
- Physical neglect means failing to provide food, clothing, shelter, or medical care.
- Supervisory neglect happens when caregivers leave a child alone or with someone unfit to watch them.
- Medical neglect occurs when a caregiver refuses or delays necessary medical treatment.
CPS uses these definitions to evaluate each case. They focus on the child’s safety, not the intentions of the caregiver.
Who Must Report Abuse or Neglect?
In Texas, everyone has a legal duty to report suspected child abuse or neglect. The law does not require proof—only suspicion based on facts.
Mandatory Reporters
Some individuals have a higher legal obligation to report. These include:
- Teachers and school staff
- Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers
- Daycare workers and child-care employees
- Clergy members and church staff
- Social workers and mental health professionals
These individuals must report within 48 hours of learning about the suspected abuse. Failing to report can lead to legal consequences, including fines or jail time.
How To Make a Report to CPS
You can report abuse or neglect in two ways:
- Call the Texas Abuse Hotline at 1-800-252-5400
- Submit a report online through the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services website
If you believe a child faces immediate danger, call 911 before contacting CPS.
Information You Should Provide
You do not need to have all the details, but sharing as much as you can helps CPS respond effectively. Try to include:
- The child’s name and age
- Names of the parents or caregivers
- Description of the suspected abuse or neglect
- When and where the incident occurred
- Any visible signs of injury or unusual behavior
CPS does not require you to reveal your name, but including it can help if they need more information.
What Happens After a Report?
Once CPS receives a report, they decide how to respond based on the level of risk involved. They classify the case as either Priority One or Priority Two.
Priority One Cases
These involve children in immediate danger. CPS must begin investigating within 24 hours.
Priority Two Cases
These involve less urgent concerns. CPS starts these investigations within 72 hours.
The assigned caseworker may interview the child, caregivers, school staff, doctors, or others who may have relevant information. They may also visit the child’s home to assess safety conditions.
CPS Investigation Outcomes
After gathering facts, CPS decides the outcome of the case. They may:
- Rule out the abuse or neglect if they find no evidence or risk
- Confirm abuse or neglect and work with the family on a safety plan
- Remove the child if they believe the home is unsafe and the parents cannot protect the child
Most CPS cases do not lead to removal. CPS prefers to keep families together whenever it can do so without endangering the child. If removal becomes necessary, the agency must seek court approval and may place the child with relatives or foster care.
Legal Protection for Reporters
Texas law protects people who report abuse or neglect in good faith. You cannot face legal action for filing a report, even if the investigation does not confirm abuse. The law also keeps your identity confidential, unless a court orders otherwise.
This legal shield encourages people to report concerns without fear of retaliation or legal trouble.
False Reporting Has Consequences
Filing a report you know is false can lead to criminal charges. Texas treats false reports as a serious offense. A first offense can result in a misdemeanor. Repeated false reports may lead to felony charges. The law aims to protect children and ensure that CPS uses its resources on real cases.
How CPS Works With Other Agencies
CPS does not work alone. They often coordinate with:
- Law enforcement
- Medical professionals
- Schools
- Courts
These partnerships help CPS verify facts and protect children quickly. In cases of criminal behavior, police may open separate investigations or file charges. CPS focuses on safety and support, while law enforcement handles legal accountability.
What Parents Should Know
If CPS contacts you, stay calm. Cooperate with the caseworker and provide honest answers. Ask for clarification if you do not understand something. You have the right to speak with an attorney. CPS may ask you to take steps like parenting classes, drug testing, or therapy sessions to address concerns.
Refusing to cooperate or becoming hostile may escalate the situation. If you disagree with CPS findings or actions, you can request a review or take the case to court.
When CPS Removes a Child
Child removal is a last resort. CPS does not remove children without legal cause and court approval. If CPS removes your child, you will receive paperwork and information about the court process. You may attend hearings and work toward reunification.
The court may appoint an attorney and a guardian ad litem to represent your child’s best interest. You may also receive a case plan outlining what you must do to regain custody. Following the case plan and maintaining communication with CPS can increase your chances of reunification.
How the Public Can Help
You do not need to be a mandatory reporter to protect a child. Neighbors, friends, relatives, and even strangers can file a report. If something feels wrong or raises concerns, report it. Your action may save a child’s life or prevent long-term harm.
Educating others, supporting families in need, and promoting safe environments also make a difference. Abuse prevention works best when the whole community stays involved.
Final Thoughts
Child Protective Services handles difficult and sensitive matters. Reporting abuse or neglect helps protect children and gives families a chance to correct harmful behavior. Texas law protects those who report in good faith and takes action when children face risk. Knowing how CPS works gives you the tools to act if you ever witness or suspect abuse. Always report what you see or hear. A single phone call can change a child’s life.
Questions about the material contained in today’s blog post? Contact the Law Office of Bryan Fagan
If you have any questions about the material contained in today’s blog post, please do not hesitate to contact the Law Office of Bryan Fagan. Our licensed family law attorneys offer free-of-charge consultations six days a week in person, over the phone, and via video. These consultations are a great way for you to learn more about the world of Texas family law as well as about how your family circumstances may be impacted by the filing of a divorce or child custody case. Thank you for your interest in our law practice and we hope he will join us again tomorrow as we continue to share relevant and interesting information about Texas family law.
eBooks
If you want to know more about what you can do, CLICK the button below to get your FREE E-book:
Other Articles you may be interested in:
- Child Neglect in Texas: Preparing for a CPS Case
- How to Track CPS Investigation Stages: Texas DFPS Records Guide [With Templates]
- How to Beat CPS More Than Once in Texas
- How to stand up for yourself during a Texas CPS case
- How to prevent a second CPS investigation after your first concludes
- Family Law Cases in Texas: The final stages of a CPS case
- When can CPS remove your child from your home in Texas and what can you do about it?
- What to do if you no longer like your CPS service plan?
- In what circumstances could your child end up living with your relative during a CPS case?
- What can a CPS investigation into your family mean now and in the future?
- What to do if your spouse is being investigated by CPS in Texas for abuse or neglect of your child?
- Can CPS photograph your house and request your child’s medical records in Texas?
- How to Prepare for a CPS Interview in Texas: A Comprehensive Step-By-Step Guide
- What are the 4 types of child neglect?
- Kinship placement in Texas: What it is and how your family could be impacted by it
- Divorcing from an Abusive Spouse in Texas: What you Need to Know
