Florida Child Welfare Case Manager Certification Practice Exam

When a 12-year-old child is determined missing, within how many hours must law enforcement be notified?

1. 2 hours

2. 4 hours

3. 24 hours

4. 48 hours

The correct answer is: 4 hours

When minor children are reported missing, the situation is considered urgent and law enforcement must act quickly in order to ensure their safety. Therefore, it is important for law enforcement to be notified as soon as possible, with the requirement being within 4 hours of the child being determined missing. Option A, 2 hours, may seem like a reasonable time frame, but it may not allow enough time for the child to be found if they are in immediate danger. Option C, 24 hours, is too far out and could delay the search for the child, potentially putting their safety at risk. Option D, 48 hours, is too long and may not allow for a timely response that could result in a successful recovery of the child. Therefore, option B is the best choice as it provides a reasonable and urgent time frame for law enforcement to be notified.