Church Abuse ClaimsAttorneys

Church Abuse Claims in Michigan

Confidential legal help for survivors of church and clergy abuse in Michigan. Free case review.

Start My Free Case ReviewCall (202) 934-2954

Free and confidential • No fee unless we recover • You decide whether to proceed

Michigan — Filing Rules

Civil claims for church and clergy abuse in Michigan 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 Michigan, a civil claim for criminal sexual conduct against a minor must be filed by the survivor's 28th birthday, or within three years of discovering both the injury and its link to the abuse, whichever is later.

Key law: Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.5851b. Law checked September 14, 2026.

Types of Claims in Michigan

  • 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 Michigan

A narrow 90-day window created in 2018 applied only to a limited set of past cases and has closed. Because the discovery rule can extend the deadline, survivors over 28 should still have their dates checked by an attorney.

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 Michigan?
In Michigan, a civil claim for criminal sexual conduct against a minor must be filed by the survivor's 28th birthday, or within three years of discovering both the injury and its link to the abuse, whichever is later. 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 Michigan if the abuse happened many years ago?
Possibly. A narrow 90-day window created in 2018 applied only to a limited set of past cases and has closed. Because the discovery rule can extend the deadline, survivors over 28 should still have their dates checked by an attorney.
Can I bring a claim in Michigan 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 Michigan?
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 Michigan, the firm works with appropriately licensed local counsel.
Does it cost anything to enquire about a claim in Michigan?
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, Minnesota, Colorado, Washington.

Start a Free Case Review

Check Your Michigan 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

Prefer to talk? Call (202) 934-2954

What type of institution was involved?

Call nowFree case review