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Church Abuse Claims in Maryland

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Maryland — Filing Rules

Civil claims for church and clergy abuse in Maryland 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 Maryland, a civil claim for sexual abuse that happened while the survivor was a minor can be filed at any time, including claims that had expired before October 1, 2023.

Key law: Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-117. Law checked September 14, 2026.

Types of Claims in Maryland

  • 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 Maryland

The Child Victims Act of 2023 removed the deadline and revived older claims, and the Supreme Court of Maryland upheld the law on February 3, 2025. For claims against private organizations, non-economic damages are capped at $1.5 million per claimant per defendant for cases filed before June 1, 2025, and $700,000 for cases filed on or after that date. Different limits apply to claims against government bodies.

Diocese Bankruptcy Cases in Maryland

Abuse claims against these Maryland dioceses are handled in bankruptcy court, with their own deadlines and rules. See how diocese bankruptcy claims work.

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 Maryland?
In Maryland, a civil claim for sexual abuse that happened while the survivor was a minor can be filed at any time, including claims that had expired before October 1, 2023. 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 Maryland if the abuse happened many years ago?
Possibly. The Child Victims Act of 2023 removed the deadline and revived older claims, and the Supreme Court of Maryland upheld the law on February 3, 2025. For claims against private organizations, non-economic damages are capped at $1.5 million per claimant per defendant for cases filed before June 1, 2025, and $700,000 for cases filed on or after that date. Different limits apply to claims against government bodies.
Are any Catholic dioceses in Maryland in bankruptcy?
We track these Maryland cases: Archdiocese of Baltimore (disclosure statements denied Aug 2026). Claims against a diocese in bankruptcy must be filed in the bankruptcy case, by the court's deadline.
Can I bring a claim in Maryland 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 Maryland?
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 Maryland, the firm works with appropriately licensed local counsel.
Does it cost anything to enquire about a claim in Maryland?
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, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Louisiana, Texas, Florida, Michigan, Minnesota, Colorado, Washington.

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Check Your Maryland 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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What type of institution was involved?

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