Few criminal accusations carry more emotional weight or potential consequences than a Child Abuse charge. In Fort Collins and Larimer County, Colorado, these cases are taken extremely seriously by police, prosecutors, and the courts. But what many people don’t realize is that Child Abuse charges can arise from situations that were accidents, misunderstandings, or moments of frustration — not intentional harm.
Many Child Abuse allegations stem from a mandatory reporter making a report. As of September 2025, there has been an update to the requirements for a mandatory reporter in Colorado. The changes include:
- Any Child Abuse or Neglect suspected must be reported within 24 hours;
- A mandatory reporter is only required to report a concern when it is learned through their professional role. If the information is gathered from a personal experience, outside of their professional role, they are not required to report;
- Victims advocates are no longer mandatory reporters;
- A mandatory reporter must make the report themselves.
Loveland Child Abuse Lawyer: What Is Child Abuse Under Colorado Law?
Under C.R.S. § 18-6-401, a person commits Child Abuse if they cause an injury to a child’s life or health, permit a child to be unreasonably placed in a situation that poses a threat to their life or health, or engage in a pattern of conduct that results in mistreatment or neglect.
In plain terms, this means you can be charged with Child Abuse not only for direct physical harm, but also for neglect, unsafe conditions, or endangering situations.
Examples of Conduct That Can Lead to Child Abuse Charges in Estes Park, Colorado
Colorado’s definition of Child Abuse is broad, which means charges can stem from a wide range of circumstances, including:
- Physical discipline that leaves visible marks or injuries
- Leaving a young child unsupervised in a car or home
- Driving under the Influence (DUI) with a child in the vehicle
- Failing to provide necessary medical care or nutrition
- Living conditions that endanger a child’s safety or health
- Exposure to Domestic Violence or substance abuse
Sometimes, even a well-intentioned parent or caregiver can face charges after an accident or a misinterpretation by a teacher, doctor, or neighbor who reports suspected abuse.
Attorney for Child Abuse Charges in Fort Collins: Degrees of Child Abuse Charges in Colorado
The severity of a Child Abuse charge depends on the level of harm and the accused person’s intent.
- Felony Child Abuse may apply when a child suffers serious bodily injury or death, especially if prosecutors believe the act was knowing or intentional. Penalties can include years in prison and substantial fines.
- Misdemeanor Child Abuse often involves situations where a child was endangered or suffered minor injuries. Even so, these cases can result in jail time, probation, and mandatory parenting classes.
Colorado courts and prosecutors consider a child’s age, the level of risk, and whether the alleged abuse was ongoing or isolated when determining the severity of charges.