CD-50407c
Conflicted Over Confidentiality: Indiana Ethics Opinion Says Lawyers Not Always Obligated to Report Child Abuse.
Hudson, Jr., David L.
Journal Article
Copyright
Published: March 2016
ABA Child Law Practice
Vol. 35, No. 3
, p. 42-43
ABA Center on Children and the Law
740 15th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20005
Tel: 202-662-1720
Fax: 202-662-1755
800-285-2221
ctrchildlaw@americanbar.org
Available From:http://www.americanbar.org/groups/child_law.html
This article explains that Indiana law requires anyone who has reason to believe that a child is a victim of abuse or neglect to immediately make a report to the State department of child services or a local law enforcement agency, however, the Indiana State bar Association has concluded that the obligation of lawyers to report cases of child abuse or neglect is not absolute. The dilemma between the mandatory reporting statute and the duty of confidentiality under professional conduct rules is discussed.
Keywords:
Indiana; professional conduct; lawyers; mandatory reporting; confidentiality; child abuse reporting; ethics