i totally understand your perspective and i think people do misuse the system for nefarious purposes or whatever, but all i was saying is that we truly do not know the situation. sure, it's possible the wife in this case has it out for the sister and just wanted to be a bitch, but it's also possible there was legitimate concern. my sister in law is pregnant right now and ive been in her apartment.. it was absolutely disgusting. plates/dishes that looked like they'd been sitting around for months, curtains blocking any airflow from any windows, the stench permeated into the hallway of the building.. trash all over the floor except a path leading from the microwave to the recliners/tv area to the bedroom (mattress with no sheet on the floor surrounded by dirty clothes), and to the bathroom (used pads everywhere in the sink indicating they don't wash hands..), you get the idea im sure. im a mandatory reporter through my work, and honestly, im terrified at the prospect of a kid coming into that environment. i was scared when their DOGS were introduced to that apartment. the absolute last thing i want is to cause a rift in the family, but i dont think a child can safely live there the way it is. attempts to talk to her about it have been met with "it's fine, dont worry about it!" so im left in this situation where i either ignore a situation that i know is not healthy for an infant, or bring in someone with authority to help (honestly, if you have suggestions for me, please let me know. i havent done anything yet because the baby isn't born, but talking does not seem to be breaking through to her. i also havent threatened to call cps because that would just cause more drama im sure).

i will also say i dont think people should be penalized for calling cps because it may dissuade people from calling in situations where it is warranted. i guess if it was obviously a false claim.. but again i dont know how that'd work. people at cps are overworked already, i cant imagine them spending time prosecuting/testifying to prosecute false claims.