MD Child Victims

The Maryland Child Victims Act (CVA) took effect on October 1, 2023, eliminating the statute of limitations for civil lawsuits related to childhood sexual abuse. This legislation represents a significant advancement in holding perpetrators accountable, particularly those in positions of authority. By removing time constraints on legal action, the law empowers survivors to seek justice, compensation, and closure, regardless of when the abuse occurred.

Additionally, the CVA partially waives immunity for the state and local governments in lawsuits stemming from the sexual abuse of minors, allowing complaints to be filed without the usual “notice” requirement for civil lawsuits against government agencies.

Since the enactment of the CVA, numerous lawsuits have been filed against individuals, institutions, and organizations, including the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Slater Slater Schulman filed multiple lawsuits on behalf of plaintiffs alleging sexual abuse at the Charles H. Hickey, Jr. School, a Maryland juvenile detention facility. Furthermore, over 6,000 plaintiffs have filed lawsuits against the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services, alleging mistreatment during their placements in juvenile facilities such as the Thomas J.S. Waxter Children’s Center, the Baltimore City Juvenile Justice Center, the Victor Cullen Center, and the Cheltenham Youth Detention Center. This surge in litigation highlights deep-seated concerns about past abuses within Maryland’s juvenile justice system.

Under the Maryland CVA, victims of abuse may seek recovery for:

• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Psychological trauma
• Loss of employment
• Loss of income

Slater Slater Schulman LLP is committed to the confidential representation of individuals who were abused as children in Maryland. If you or someone you love has suffered this form of abuse and wishes to file a claim, please contact Slater Slater Schulman LLP for a free, confidential consultation by filling out the form on this page or by calling our office at (800) 251-6990.