Church Abuse Claims in Colorado

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Colorado — Filing Rules

Civil claims for church and clergy abuse in Colorado are subject to state-specific filing deadlines, tolling provisions, and in some cases lookback window legislation. The information below is general in nature. Individual case assessment is essential.

In Colorado, a civil claim based on sexual misconduct against a minor that happened on or after January 1, 2022 can be brought at any time. The same applies to earlier abuse if the previous deadline had not yet expired on January 1, 2022.

Key law: Colo. Rev. Stat. § 13-80-103.7. Law checked September 14, 2026.

Types of Claims in Colorado

  • Catholic diocese and clergy abuse claims
  • Protestant and evangelical church claims
  • Religious school abuse claims
  • Church camp and youth ministry abuse
  • Diocese bankruptcy trust filings
  • Historical abuse with extended deadlines

Older Claims and Revival Windows in Colorado

Colorado's 2021 Child Sexual Abuse Accountability Act also created a new claim for older abuse, but in 2023 the Colorado Supreme Court held (Aurora Public Schools v. A.S.) that it cannot be used where the survivor's earlier claims were already time-barred.

Official Sources

State Law Notice: Laws governing civil claims for religious institution abuse vary significantly by state. Filing deadlines, lookback windows, and available defendants differ depending on where the abuse occurred and your current state of residence. The information on this page is general in nature. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon without first speaking to a qualified attorney about your specific circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the statute of limitations for church abuse claims in Colorado?
In Colorado, a civil claim based on sexual misconduct against a minor that happened on or after January 1, 2022 can be brought at any time. The same applies to earlier abuse if the previous deadline had not yet expired on January 1, 2022. The deadline that applies depends on when the abuse happened, the survivor's age and the type of claim, so speak with an attorney before assuming a claim is time-barred.
Can I still file a claim in Colorado if the abuse happened many years ago?
Possibly. Colorado's 2021 Child Sexual Abuse Accountability Act also created a new claim for older abuse, but in 2023 the Colorado Supreme Court held (Aurora Public Schools v. A.S.) that it cannot be used where the survivor's earlier claims were already time-barred.
Can I bring a claim in Colorado if I now live in another state?
Usually, yes. What matters is generally where the abuse happened and where the church or institution is based, not where you live now. Which state's deadline applies can depend on those facts, so get advice early.
Do I need a lawyer licensed in Colorado?
A case must be filed by a lawyer admitted to practise in the court where it is brought. Gerald Lee Cross Jr is licensed in Missouri and Kansas; for cases in Colorado, the firm works with appropriately licensed local counsel.
Does it cost anything to enquire about a claim in Colorado?
No. Initial enquiries are free and confidential. Cases are handled on a contingency basis — no legal fees unless compensation is recovered.

Church Abuse Claims in Other States

Deadlines differ from state to state. See our overview of church abuse filing deadlines, or the guide for another state: California, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Louisiana, Texas, Florida, Michigan, Minnesota, Washington.

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Check Your Colorado Claim — Free and Confidential

Tell us briefly what happened. The legal team will review it and explain your options, with no cost and no obligation.

  • Free, confidential case review
  • No legal fees unless compensation is recovered
  • Share only what you are comfortable with
  • Filing deadlines apply, so check your options now

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