Child abuse is generally the mistreatment of a child by a parent or caregiver—through actions or inactions—that causes injury, death, or emotional harm to the child—or that places the child at serious risk of such injury, death, or emotional harm. Mistreatment that constitutes child abuse may take many forms, including neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, failure to supervise, and exploitation. Child abuse laws vary from state to state and are usually located in a state’s family code and criminal or penal code.

In Illinois, child abuse is defined and regulated under both the Illinois Juvenile Court Act and the Criminal Code. The state recognizes various forms of child abuse, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and neglect. Illinois law mandates that certain professionals, such as teachers and medical personnel, are required to report suspected child abuse to the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Failure to report can result in penalties. Once a report is made, DCFS is tasked with investigating the allegations. If abuse is substantiated, the consequences for the perpetrator can range from loss of custody to criminal charges, which may include fines and imprisonment. The severity of the punishment typically corresponds to the severity of the abuse. Additionally, Illinois has established the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act, which outlines the process for reporting and responding to allegations of child abuse and neglect.