GEORGIA
curated resources for Christian ministries striving to prevent child abuse
What is Considered Child Abuse in the State of Georgia
Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. §19-7-5), child abuse includes physical injury (other than by accident), neglect or exploitation by a caretaker, endangering a child, sexual abuse, and sexual exploitation. However, discipline is allowed so long as no physical injury results.
(Source: Making & Screening Reports – Georgia)
Requirements for Churches and Clergy
Clergy are mandated reporters, but there is a clergy-penitent privilege exception. If abuse is disclosed in a confidential religious confession (or similar communication required to remain confidential), that alone is exempt. However, if clergy receive abuse information from another source, they must report it under law.
(Source: Clergy as Mandatory Reporters – Georgia)
Mandatory Reporting Laws
Under O.C.G.A. §19-7-5, clergy (like other mandated reporters) must make an oral report immediately, and in no case later than 24 hours, when they have reasonable cause to believe abuse occurred. After the oral report, a written/electronic/fax report may follow if requested. The report is made to Georgia DFCS (Centralized Intake) or, if necessary, law enforcement.
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
Key definitions include:
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Physical abuse: non-accidental physical harm
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Neglect/exploitation: caretaker’s failure to provide needs or misuse
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Endangerment: placing a child in risk of harm
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Sexual abuse/exploitation: sexual contact or use of child for sexual purposes
For prevention: churches should adopt written policies, train clergy/volunteers to recognize signs, provide clear protocols for disclosures, and educate their communities about mandatory reporting. Georgia offers free mandated reporter training and resources through PCA-Georgia.
(Source: PCA Georgia Mandated Reporting)
SCHOOL GUIDELINES
Who Must Report in Schools?
All school employees and volunteers are mandated reporters under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. §19-7-5). This includes teachers, administrators, counselors, coaches, and other staff who work with children.
(Source: Making & Screening Reports – Georgia)
Mandatory Reporting Laws
School personnel must report suspected abuse immediately, and in no case later than 24 hours after reasonable cause arises. The oral report (phone or otherwise) must go to DFCS Centralized Intake (1-855-GACHILD) or, if required, law enforcement. A written report by electronic means, fax, or other may follow if requested. Failure to report can be a misdemeanor.
(Source: Making & Screening Reports – Georgia)
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
Schools adhere to the same statutory definitions used by the state: physical abuse, neglect/exploitation, endangerment, sexual abuse/exploitation. Prevention in schools should include staff training, awareness of red flags, internal policies for reporting, coordination with DFCS protocols, and education for students.
(Source: PCA Georgia Mandated Reporting Training)
Public Health Context: Child Abuse in Georgia
Georgia DFCS operates 24/7 centralized intake for child abuse/neglect reports. In recent years, Georgia has expanded its mandatory reporting framework to include child service organization volunteers, clergy, and broader categories of caregivers as mandated reporters. Georgia emphasizes using mandated reporter training to raise statewide awareness and prevention.
How to make a report in the state of Georgia
Every state has their own process for filing reports involving abuse. See the below for your states guidance.
Call Immediately:
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Georgia Child Protective Services (CPS) Intake Line: 1-855-GA-CHILD — 1-855-422-4453 (24/7)
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Emergency or immediate danger? Call 911 first.
After Making the Call –
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Mandated reporters may also submit reports through the Georgia Child Protective Services (CPS) Online Reporting Portal if it is not an emergency.
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A written or electronic report is required for mandated reporters after the initial call when filing through DFCS (Division of Family & Children Services).
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Do not email reports. Use phone, portal, fax, mail, or in-person delivery only.
Have This Information Ready When Reporting:
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Child’s name, age, and address
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Description of suspected abuse or neglect
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Names of parents/caregivers, if known
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Location of the child and any urgent safety or medical needs
Additional Notes:
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Georgia law requires all mandated reporters (such as school staff, medical providers, clergy, childcare workers) to report within 24 hours of suspecting abuse or neglect.
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Good faith reporters are protected from liability and may request confidentiality, though mandated reporters typically must identify themselves for follow-up.
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Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
In a world where child protection is paramount, ECAP is elevating child protection standards, ensuring a secure and nurturing environment in Christian ministries.
Every aspect of life adheres to specific standards – whether it be technology, education, finances, or industry practices.
In Jesus’ teachings, He imparted immense value to children, emphasizing the significance of their well-being. Reflecting on this profound truth, a compelling question emerges: Shouldn’t child protection be upheld to an even higher standard than these other areas, considering the blessing of children?
Join Us in the Fight to Protect the Next Generation.
Transforming child safety measures, ECAP is empowering Christian churches, schools, and camps nationwide to embrace an elevated standard of care.
Together, let’s shield our children from harm and create a brighter, safer tomorrow!
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Information updated on 8.17.2025
