Which professional is NOT a mandated reporter under the CPSL?

In Pennsylvania, the Child Protective Services Law (CPSL) outlines specific categories of professionals who are mandated reporters of child abuse. These individuals are required to report any suspected child abuse to the appropriate authorities due to their closer interaction with children in vulnerable situations, which generally includes healthcare workers, teachers, and social workers. These professionals are in positions where they are likely to encounter signs of abuse in the course of their work, making them key players in the safeguarding of children.

Lawyers, however, do not fall into the category of mandated reporters under the CPSL. Their primary role is to provide legal representation and advice, and while they may have ethical obligations in certain circumstances (for example, if a child discloses abuse during a legal proceeding), they are not legally required to report suspected child abuse in the same manner as other professions listed. This distinction is critical in understanding the responsibilities assigned to various roles in the context of child protection.