State Case

Case #1: State Implications

Roman Catholic Archbishop of Washington v. John Doe, et al.

How would an abuse claim from 50 years ago impact your ministry financially?

What if your ministry could be sued for child abuse claims from decades ago? This scenario has become a reality in Maryland, where a new law eliminates time limits for filing such lawsuits.

What You Need to Know

Previously, Maryland law required abuse claims to be filed within 20 years after a victim turned 18. However, the 2023 Child Victims Act removed these limits, allowing previously barred claims to proceed. In this case, several ministries argued that the retroactive application of the law was unconstitutional, claiming it violated due process protections and created unfair liability for actions from decades past. Conversely, proponents of the law, including abuse survivors, argued that it was necessary to ensure justice for victims whose claims were previously time-barred, emphasizing the long-lasting impact of abuse and the need to hold institutions accountable. Maryland’s highest court upheld the law, determining that the legislature had the authority to remove the statute of limitations for civil claims.

This decision aligns with a broader legal trend across the United States, where many states have enacted similar legislation to extend or eliminate statutes of limitations for abuse claims, aiming to provide survivors with greater access to justice. The ruling has already led to numerous lawsuits against churches and ministries, potentially reshaping the legal landscape for abuse claims in Maryland and beyond.

What Your Ministry Can Do

1. Review Historical Records: Ensure all records are accurate, organized, and securely stored.
2. Strengthen Abuse Prevention Policies: Update child protection policies and invest in training and background checks.
3. Verify Insurance Coverage: Confirm that your policies cover historical abuse claims.