On April 11, 2023, Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed the Child Victims Act of 2023 into law. The Act, which took effect on October 1, 2023, allows childhood sexual abuse survivors to take legal action against their abusers and the entities that allowed the abuse or occur or covered it up, regardless of how long ago the abuse occurred.
Below, our Baltimore clergy sexual abuse lawyers detail the steps to take to file a civil claim under the Act.
Steps Survivors Should Take to File a Claim Under the Child Victims Act
When a childhood sexual abuse survivor decides to file a claim under the Child Victims Act, it involves a series of important steps designed to ensure their rights are protected and justice is served.
Speak with One of Our Sexual Abuse Lawyers
You shouldn’t go through this process alone. When you consult with our team, we will walk you through the process and what you can expect. We can help navigate the complexities of the legal system, advocate on your behalf, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
Report the Abuse
Reporting the abuse is a crucial step. In many cases, the abuse occurred years or even decades ago. That’s okay. We still want to report it and keep a record. If the abuser was affiliated with a church, you can start with the Office of the Maryland Attorney General. We can help you through this process.
We know how difficult this may be, but our team will be there every step of the way. We believe you, and we are on your side.
Documentation and Evidence Gathering
Gathering documentation and evidence is important to building a strong case (though the lack of any supporting documentation does not mean you do not have a case). Gathering information may include obtaining medical records, psychological evaluations, witness statements, yearbooks, photographs, and any other relevant information that can support the claim. We will handle much of the documentation and evidence gathering on your behalf.
Filing the Claim
The actual process of filing a claim involves establishing liability and then preparing and submitting legal documents to the appropriate court. If the abuse took place under the auspices of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, a claim must be filed through the bankruptcy process. If, however, the abuse took place under the auspices of the Archdiocese of Washington, or in a public or private school, the claim must proceed in the state or federal trial courts. The specifics of this process can vary depending on who you are holding liable.
We can navigate the claims process on your behalf, whether you are holding your abuser, the church, or another entity liable.
Navigating Legal Proceedings
Once the claim is filed, the legal proceedings can include a variety of steps, such as discovery, pre-trial motions, and potentially a trial. Throughout these proceedings, we will advocate on your behalf, working to secure a favorable outcome, whether through a settlement or a court judgment.
We will work to keep you as comfortable as possible during this time. We are trauma-trained lawyers and paralegals, and have been certified as cognitive and trauma trained advocates through the Center for Hope.
Navigating the process of filing a civil lawsuit under the Child Victims Act is complex and emotionally challenging. While you can handle this process alone, you shouldn’t. Our lawyers are standing by, ready to assist you in any way we can.
For a free legal consultation, call,
(888) 585-2188
How Our Team Can Help You as You File a Claim Under the Child Victims Act
Navigating the legal system can be an overwhelming and emotionally draining experience, especially when it involves such personal and painful matters. At Jenner Law, our team of sexual abuse lawyers is here to offer you the support, answers, and experience you need to guide you through this challenging process with empathy and understanding. Here’s how we can support you as you file a clergy sexual abuse claim under the Maryland Child Victims Act:
Ensuring You Understand Your Rights
It’s crucial that you feel empowered and informed about your rights under the Child Victims Act. Our lawyers have a deep understanding of this legislation, including the elimination of the statute of limitations which allows you to seek justice years after the abuse. We’ll explain your rights in clear, understandable terms, helping you grasp your legal options and the potential paths toward justice.
Creating a Personalized Legal Strategy
Your experience and case are unique, with their own set of circumstances and challenges. We will craft a legal strategy tailored specifically to you, assessing the strength of your claim, the right jurisdiction, and the best approach to enhance your chances of a successful outcome.
Handling Evidence Gathering and Case Preparation
Collecting strong evidence is an essential part of what we do in clergy sexual abuse cases. Our team is adept at gathering and compiling evidence that substantiates your claim, including medical records, psychological assessments, witness statements, and any other documentation that corroborates your account. We’re committed to preparing your case with thorough attention to detail, ensuring all paperwork is correctly filed within legal deadlines.
Navigating the Legal System
The process of filing a claim under the Child Victims Act can seem daunting due to the complexity of the legal system. Our lawyers, with their extensive experience, will guide you through every step, managing all legal proceedings and advocating passionately on your behalf, from the initial claim filing to court representation, if necessary.
Emotional Support and Sensitivity
We understand the profound emotional impact that reliving your trauma can have on you. Beyond legal representation, we offer emotional support, approaching your case with the sensitivity, compassion, and respect you deserve, ensuring you feel heard and validated throughout this journey.
Advocating for Justice and Compensation
Our goal is to achieve justice for you, seeking financial compensation for the harm you’ve endured, which can help cover medical bills and therapy costs and compensate for pain and suffering. We are dedicated to holding your abuser and anyone else who contributed to the abuse accountable, fighting for the compensation you deserve under the law.
Confidentiality and Trust
Your privacy and trust are paramount to us. We recognize the sensitivity of these cases and are committed to maintaining the highest level of discretion in all communications and details of your case.
Our Team Will Help You Navigate the Steps of Filing a Claim Under the Act
While the Child Victims Act eliminated the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse cases, you do want to act quickly. There are many challenges to this law, which can lead to complications in your case.
By choosing a clergy sexual abuse lawyer from Jenner Law, you gain a knowledgeable, compassionate ally dedicated to achieving justice and healing. We help adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse seek the justice they deserve.
Let us help you through your journey, too. Call us today for a free, confidential consultation.
Call or text (888) 585-2188 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form