Potential liability in cases of child abuse and neglect

Child abuse and neglect are tough for pediatricians. These cases are emotionally and intel-lectually taxing. They also present numerous opportunities for litigation against the physician, and in rare cases, potential liability. This article identifies the causes of problems for the pediatrician, illustrates the dilemma created by current legal requirements for abuse reporting in many states, and outlines strategies pediatricians can use to minimize the risk of being sued and to advocate for changes in the law. As Is true in all matters of state law, laws differ from state to state, so the pediatrician is advised to consult the law in his or her own state.