Alabama - Mandatory Reporters of Child Abuse and Neglect

Statute: §§ 26-14-3(a); 26-14-10

Professions that must report

Health care professionals

Mental health professionals

Social work professionals

Education/child care professionals

Law enforcement professionals

Others

Any other person called upon to give aid or assistance to any child

Standard

Known or suspected

Privileged Communications

Attorney/client

WHO MUST REPORT

*Hospitals, clinics, sanitariums, doctors, physicians, surgeons, medical examiners, coroners, dentists, osteopaths, optometrists, chiropractors, podiatrists, nurses, school teachers, and officials;

*Peace officers, law enforcement officials, pharmacists, social workers, day-care workers or employees, mental health professionals;

*Any other person called upon to render aid or medical assistance to any child.

CIRCUMSTANCES

When the child is known or suspected to be a victim of child abuse or neglect.

PRIVILEGED COMMUNICATIONS

Ala. Code § 26-14-10 (1992)

The doctrine of privileged communication, with the exception of the attorney-client privilege, shall not be a ground for excluding any evidence regarding a child's injuries or the case thereof in any judicial proceeding resulting from a report pursuant to this chapter.