Now that the bankruptcy deadline to file sexual abuse claims against Boy Scouts of America (BSA) has closed, victims may still take action against BSA local councils and troop sponsoring organizations after several states extended their statute of limitations.
Many of these court deadlines are rapidly approaching, so victims should act fast. In fact, the Arizona deadline is set to close this December.
For more information about the claims process in relation to the local councils, continue reading below.
Which states extended their statute of limitations?
Arizona, California, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, and Washington, D.C. all passed legislation under the Child Victims Act to extend their look back window to revive barred or expired abuse cases.
This allows victims to file suit in the court systems of those states against other Scout-related entities—separate from the bankruptcy that closed on November 16, 2020.
Who is included in the local councils?
This change in legislation may impact cases against Boy Scout local councils, and Boy Scout and Cub Scout Troop sponsoring organizations, like the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (also known as the LDS Church or Mormon Church).
When is the deadline for each state?
Deadlines vary by state, so make sure to review the official close date with an attorney to ensure enough time to file claims.
States are listed below in order of deadline:
- Arizona: December 31, 2020
- Washington, D.C.: May 3, 2021
- North Carolina: July 22, 2021
- New York: August 14, 2021
- New Jersey: November 30, 2021
- California: October 13, 2022
It’s important to note that this does not impact claims filed in the bankruptcy court.
Why seek compensation from BSA local councils and sponsoring organizations?
These entities played a role in the selection and hiring of Scout leaders who abused children. The local councils own hundreds of camps, reservations, and other properties across the country. The Sam Houston Area Council, for example, is in the process of developing Camp Strake, which has $150 million in assets.
Filing a claim against the local councils and sponsoring organizations may result in you finally obtaining the justice, compensation and closure you and your family deserve.
How do I know if I’m a victim of scouting abuse?
Childhood sexual abuse can come in many forms. That’s why some victims struggle to know whether their situation is categorized as abuse.
If you’ve experienced any of the following by your perpetrator, you have the right to take action:
- Sexual abuse or molestation.
- Sexual conduct or misconduct.
- Sexual exploitation or molestation.
- Sexual touching or fondling.
- Sexual penetration.
- Sexualized interaction(s).
This includes between a child and an adult, and between a child and another child, in each instance without regard to whether such activity involved explicit force, whether such activity involved genital or other physical contact, and whether the child associated the abuse with any physical, psychological, or emotional harm.
If you’re unsure where your sexual abuse case falls, contact a trusted attorney as soon as possible.
Who can help me file claims?
Law firms across the country are helping sexual abuse victims file claims against BSA’s local councils and troop sponsoring organizations as a way to obtain complete justice and fair compensation from ALL parties responsible for the century-long crisis of sexual abuse within Scouting.
While it’s difficult to relive painful memories from your past, in our experience as advocates for sexual abuse victims, coming forward and pursuing justice is one way to obtain the closure you deserve.
Contact Us to File a Claim Against BSA Local Councils
Contact us today. Your consultation is absolutely free. It’s only after we secure a settlement for you that we receive any form of compensation.
