Mandatory Reporters
According to The Social Degree Guide, "A mandated reporter is a person who, because of his or her profession, is legally required to report any suspicion of child abuse or neglect to the relevant authorities. These laws are in place to prevent children from being abused and to end any possible abuse or neglect at the earliest possible stage." In California, according to the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act, mandatory reporters are teachers, social workers, police officers, and clergy. These are the first people you should report abuse to, because they are legally obligated to file a report.
Taking Refuge