What Should I Do if I'm Reported for Child Abuse?

 Posted on October 17, 2026 in English

Being reported for child abuse doesn't mean you've been charged with a crime. It can lead to criminal charges, but a CPS investigation does not have to be completed before charges are filed. Maryland CPS can investigate a report or use an alternative response for lower-risk cases. This will usually go through the local department of social services, often called Child Protective Services or CPS. A caseworker will look into the report. Police may also be involved.

How you respond to being reported can affect both the CPS case and any criminal case that follows. A Howard County, MD criminal defense attorney can help you handle the investigation and any criminal charges in 2026.

What Happens After Someone Reports Me for Child Abuse in Maryland?

Under Maryland Code, Family Law Section 5-706, a report of physical or sexual abuse must be looked into within 24 hours. A report of neglect must be looked into within five days.

During that time, the caseworker or police will try to see the child. They'll try to talk with the child's parent or caregiver. They'll also decide whether the child and any other children in the home are safe.

CPS and police can work together on the case. CPS must send a written report of its findings to the State's Attorney. This office then decides whether to file criminal charges.

What Should I Do Right Away if CPS Contacts Me?

If CPS contacts you, steps that may help protect you include the following:

• Talk to a lawyer before you give a statement to CPS or police.
• Be polite to the caseworker, even if you're upset.
• Don't contact the person you think made the report.
• Don't tell your child what to say or not say. Don't tell them to change their story when speaking to different people.
• Don't delete texts, photos, or social media posts.
• Write down what happened, with dates and names, while you still remember.
• Follow any safety plan you agree to.

What you tell a caseworker can be shared with police. A comment that seems harmless can be used to support a criminal charge. A lawyer can help you decide what to say and how to say it.

How Long Does a Child Abuse Investigation Take in Maryland?

CPS tries to finish most investigations within 10 days, but the law gives them up to 60 days from the first report. When the investigation ends, CPS makes one of three findings:

• Indicated: CPS found believable evidence that abuse or neglect happened.
• Unsubstantiated: There was not enough evidence to determine whether abuse or neglect happened.
• Ruled out: CPS determined that the abuse or neglect did not happen.

An indicated finding can stay on your record with the state. It may show up in background checks for jobs that involve working with children.

Can I Fight a Child Abuse Report in Maryland?

CPS must send you written notice of its finding (Family Law Section 5-706.1). You then have 60 days to ask for a review in writing. If CPS finds evidence of abuse or neglect, you can request a hearing before an administrative judge. If CPS does not find enough evidence of abuse or neglect, you must first request a meeting with a CPS supervisor. After that meeting, you may ask for a hearing.

If you're also facing criminal charges for the same events, the hearing is put on hold until the criminal case ends. A guilty verdict in the criminal case requires the administrative appeal to be dismissed.

Can a Child Abuse Report Lead to Criminal Charges in Maryland?

A report can lead to charges, but doesn't always. The State's Attorney reviews the evidence and decides whether to file. Charges may also be brought for related crimes, like assault, if the report involves a family member.

If police ask you to come in for a voluntary interview, you can decline to answer questions and speak with a lawyer first. If you are in custody and being questioned, you can ask for a lawyer and invoke your right to remain silent.

If you're not a U.S. citizen, tell your lawyer right away. A criminal conviction may affect your immigration status.

Call a Baltimore County, MD Domestic Violence Defense Attorney Today

Getting legal help before you talk to CPS or police can help you avoid mistakes. Our Howard County, MD criminal defense lawyers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Attorney Mallon Snyder has more than 45 years of legal experience and strong relationships with judges. He helps clients prepare for court, including what to expect and how to present themselves. We won't push you into a plea deal just to close a case.

Call The Law Offices of Mallon Snyder at 301-762-7500 for a free consultation. Se habla español.