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 New Jersey, child abuse is addressed under both civil statutes, which are designed to protect the child and provide services to the family, and criminal statutes, which are designed to punish the abuser. The New Jersey Prevention of Domestic Violence Act includes child abuse as one of the forms of domestic violence. The state defines child abuse broadly to include physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, as well as neglect, abandonment, and exploitation. Under New Jersey law, specifically Title 9 (Children--Juvenile and Domestic Relations Courts) and Title 2C (The New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice), individuals who cause harm to a child or place a child at risk of harm may face severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines. Additionally, the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P) is responsible for investigating allegations of child abuse and neglect and can take action to protect the child, including removing the child from the home if necessary. Mandatory reporting laws also require certain professionals, such as teachers and doctors, to report suspected child abuse to authorities.