Moral Obligations

Key Aspects of Moral Obligation:

Based on Conscience:

Moral obligations stem from an individual's internal sense of right and wrong, rather than external rules or laws. 

Not Legally Enforceable:

Unlike legal obligations, there are no formal repercussions for failing to fulfill a moral obligation. 

Can Be Complex:

Moral obligations can vary based on individual values, societal norms, and specific situations. 

Examples:

Returning a lost wallet, helping someone in need, or acting ethically in business practices. 

Foundation for Ethics:

Moral obligations provide a framework for making ethical decisions and actions, promoting the well-being of individuals and society.

... what a lot of people lack 

Are You Legally Required to Report a Crime in California?

California law does not impose a general duty on citizens to report crimes they observe. For example, you do not have to call the police if you see someone jaywalking or committing a non-violent theft. However, some circumstances make reporting obligatory.

Mandated reporters: Professionals like teachers and health providers must report crimes involving vulnerable people, such as child abuse, elder abuse or domestic violence.

Failure to report a felony: While reporting is not a strict requirement for private citizens, failing to tell the police about a crime could have consequences, especially if you have a duty to act.

Becoming an accessory after the fact: Even if you have not directly committed a crime, helping a criminal avoid arrest or prosecution can result in felony charges.

Who Is a Mandated Reporter?

Under California’s mandatory reporting laws, people who work in specific professions must report suspected crimes involving abuse or neglect. Failure to do so is a misdemeanor and can result in up to six months in jail, fines of up to $1,000 and potential loss of a professional license.

Teachers and school staff

Doctors, nurses and other health providers

Social workers and therapists

Law enforcement officers and first responders

Clergymembers

For example, a teacher could face criminal charges if they notice bruises on a child and suspect abuse but never notify Child Protective Services or law enforcement. Similarly, health professionals who treat people with injuries that suggest violent crime or assault must tell the police.

Failure to Report: Could You Be Charged?

While private citizens do not typically have to report crimes, there are some exceptions, particularly when the crime is serious. For example, if you witness a murder, sexual assault or armed robbery, the prosecution may argue that you had a moral or legal duty to report it, especially if you were in a position of authority or had a close relationship with the victim.

You could face criminal charges if you actively help someone avoid prosecution, such as hiding a weapon, destroying evidence or lying to the police about a suspect’s whereabouts. In doing so, you become an accessory after the fact.

For instance, helping your friend escape after they commit armed robbery would make you an accessory after the fact, even if you had no involvement in planning or carrying out the crime. If convicted as an accessory after the fact, you could face up to three years in prison, hefty fines and a permanent criminal record.