FAQs

What is child abuse?

“Child Abuse” refers to sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, physical injury of a child, or neglect of a child that presents a danger to the child’s health, welfare, or safety. The Washington State laws about what is and is not abuse can be found here and here.

If you have a question about whether something is child abuse, it’s best to speak to a trained professional about what you’ve seen or heard by calling Child Protective Services at 1-800-ENDHARM.

What should I do if a child tells me that they’re being abused?

The most important thing you can do is to remain calm and neutral and listen to the child. Pay close attention to what the child says but don’t ask for all of the details about what took place. Allow the child to tell you what happened in their own words and assure them that they’re not in trouble. It’s important to then tell CPS and/or the police about what the child reported so that they can conduct a thorough investigation.

Do I have to report abuse?

According to Washington State law, certain professionals are considered “mandated reporters” and they are required to report their concerns to CPS and/or the police when they believe that a child is being harmed. Mandated reporters include police, nurses, counselors, CASAs/GALs, child care providers, teachers, and many other professionals. For a complete list, please see the Washington State Legislature website. Also, it’s important to remember that whether you are required by state law to report abuse or not, it is everyone’s responsibility to speak up for children when they are being harmed.

What if I’m not sure if a child is being abused?

It’s not your responsibility to prove whether or not a child is being abused. Rather, it’s your responsibility to report any reasonable concern of abuse to Child Protective Services and/or the police. If you suspect that a child is being abused, call 1-800-ENDHARM. If an immediate police response is needed, call 9-1-1.

What happens when the abuse is reported to the police?

Usually a report is taken and the case is assigned to a detective who has received specialized training in investigating these types of crimes. The case will be investigated by the law enforcement agency responsible for the location where the crime occurred. The detective investigates the possible crime by collecting information from the child, the person who is accused of the crime, as well as anyone else that may have information about what might have happened. The police may take photos or possession of items that they believe are important in the investigation of the crime. The police may also refer some children to medical services for an examination. Additionally, advocacy services are offered to children and their care providers during the investigation. When the investigation is complete the detective turns the case into the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and it is the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office that decides whether or not to file criminal charges.

What will happen when the abuse is reported to Child Protective Services?

First, a social worker will decide whether the case is appropriate for Child Protective Services. CPS only accepts cases where the suspect is a parent, is acting in the role of a parent, or the child is potentially in danger because of something or someone in the home. If the case does not fit into one of these categories CPS will not assign a CPS social worker.

If a CPS social worker is assigned they will often begin by assessing the safety of the child by speaking with the child. They will also speak with the parents/guardians of the child, the person who is accused of harming the child, and anyone else who may have information about the care of the child. Based on the information that CPS collects, they will work with the family to ensure the on-going safety and well-being of the child.

Will Child Protective Services take my child away from me?

The primary concern of Child Protective Services is the safety of the child and there are many ways to make sure that a child is safe. CPS may work with you to create a safety plan or they may ask the identified suspect to leave the home during the investigation. If children cannot be kept safe in their home CPS may ask that the child be temporarily removed from their parent’s care, but CPS works hard to avoid this option and it’s important that you work closely with your CPS social worker to make sure that your child is safe.

Who can I call for support?

King County Sexual Assault Resource Center (KCSARC) operates a 24-hour crisis line and Harborview Medical Center provides 24-hour access to the Emergency Department. Both resources are staffed by professionals who can provide support and guidance. In addition, during the time your case is involved in the criminal justice system you will have access to a legal advocate who is specially trained on issues of child abuse and the criminal justice system. In addition to these supports, counseling resources are available throughout the community. Harborview Abuse & Trauma Center (HATC) and King County Sexual Assault Resource Center both offer counseling by highly trained clinical professionals who are very knowledgeable on issues of child abuse and sexual assault.

I was abused as a child, but am now an adult. What resources are available for me?

Regardless of when the abuse occurred, there are resources in our community that are available to help. King County Sexual Assault Resource Center operates a 24 hour crisis line to provide support and guidance. Both Harborview Abuse & Trauma Center (HATC) and King County Sexual Assault Resource Center (KCSARC) have staff available to talk with you to help you make a plan for counseling. If you have medical concerns relating to the past abuse, the medical staff at Harborview Abuse & Trauma Center is ready to consult with you to help determine the best plan for accessing the proper medical care you need.

Where is the Children’s Justice Center of King County?

At this point in time the Children’s Justice Center of King County is not physically located at a single-site. While each agency currently has their own location, the CJC team works closely together in responding to allegations of child abuse.

How many children does the Children’s Justice Center of King County serve each year?

The CJC provides services to over 1000 children each year.

Does the CJC only serve children who have been sexually assaulted?

No. Most of the children seen at the CJC are here because of concerns about sexual abuse, but the CJC also serves children who have been physically injured or have been witnesses to crime.