State and Statute: District of Columbia, Code §§ 4-1321.01 et seq.

What Is Reportable "Abuse": Physical, sexual, or mental abuse, or negligent treatment or maltreatment, by a parent, guardian, or custodian. [4-1321.02(a)]

Mandatory Reporters: "Persons required to report such abuse or neglect shall include … school official, teacher, athletic coach, … social service worker, day care worker … domestic violence counselor … and mental health professional." [4-1321.02(b)]

How and Where to Report: Oral report to the Metropolitan Police Department or the Child and Family Services Agency (call to 24-hour, toll-free hotline (1-877-671-7233) also acceptable). Written report required if requested by authorities. [4-1321.02(a) and 4-1321.03]

Timeline to Report: Immediately. [4-1321.02]

Clergy Privilege: For reporting sexual abuse of a minor:

"The notification requirements … do not apply to a priest, clergyman, rabbi, or other duly appointed, licensed, ordained, or consecrated minister of a given religion in the District of Columbia, or a duly accredited practitioner of Christian Science in the District of Columbia, if the basis for the knowledge or belief is the result of a confession or penitential communication made by a penitent directly to the minister if: