Maryland Gov. Wes Moore signed into law the Child Victims Act of 2023 (“CVA”), which eliminates the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse cases. This transformative legislation allows survivors to file civil lawsuits at any time against perpetrators and their institutional enablers, regardless of when the abuse occurred.
Maryland joined more than two dozen states that have repealed their statutes of limitations for child sex abuse claims, giving survivors a new opportunity to seek legal action for the trauma they have endured. Previously, limitations determined when survivors could file civil suits, often leaving them without avenues for justice. This legislation, which went into effect on October 1, 2023, broke those barriers, ushering in an era of limitless potential for survivors.
The CVA substantially changed the legal framework surrounding child sexual abuse cases in Maryland.
In addition to removing all statutes of limitations for civil lawsuits related to child sexual abuse cases in the state, the measure also:
- Increased damages cap. The Act raises the statutory cap on civil damages for child sexual abuse. Public school boards and government entities have a cap of $890,000, while private institutions, including independent schools, have a cap of $1.5 million per incident of abuse.
- Facilitates civil lawsuits. The Act simplifies the process for survivors to file civil lawsuits, eliminating obstacles that previously prevented them from seeking justice.
These provisions signify a significant step forward in Maryland’s commitment to addressing child sexual abuse and supporting survivors in their journey toward healing and seeking legal redress. Survivors and their advocates came forward in a powerful video to express their support.
In a trilogy of cases before it, one of those cases being ours, the Maryland Supreme Court upheld the Child Victims Act, ensuring that survivors of child sexual abuse can finally seek justice—no matter how much time has passed. This ruling recognizes that survivors often need decades to come forward due to trauma and fear. By affirming the constitutionality of the law, the Court has sent a powerful message: institutions can no longer hide behind outdated legal deadlines. This is a historic win for accountability and survivor rights.
June 2025 Update:
The Maryland General Assembly passed amendments to the CVA, signed into law by the Governor, that significantly limit the rights of survivors of child sexual abuse. These changes took effect on June 1, 2025, and apply to lawsuits filed on or after that date. The amendments reduce the maximum damages survivors can recover—lowering the cap for claims against public institutions from $890,000 to $400,000 and against private institutions from $1.15 million to $700,000. They also restrict survivors to one lawsuit total, even if they suffered abuse in multiple locations or by multiple perpetrators. Additionally, the amendments cap attorney fees at 20% for settlements and 25% for judgments, which will discourage many experienced attorneys from taking on these complex abuse cases because of the costs and time required to bring these suits.
We believe these amendments betray the original intent of the CVA and place institutional protection above the needs of survivors. These amendments send a damaging message to those who are still processing their trauma and considering coming forward. The amendments are further injustices and indignities that survivors have to endure.
Is the related Federal Bankruptcy Court proceeding involving the Archdiocese of Baltimore (AOB) a factor in this court case?
The AOB filed a petition for bankruptcy in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Maryland (Harner, J.) on the last business day before the CVA became effective (September 29, 2023). That filing effectively blocked survivors from filing suit under the CVA. Instead, survivors were required to submit claims within the Bankruptcy proceedings. Approximately 1,000 survivor claims have been filed with the Bankruptcy Court against the AOB. Because the AOB was never sued under the CVA, it was not a party to any of the cases before the Maryland Supreme Court. It has taken no position on the CVA’s constitutionality. Under the direction of three court-approved mediators, the AOB is currently working with survivors, insurers, and other interested parties to develop an agreed-upon bankruptcy plan to submit for the Bankruptcy Court’s approval.
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What Steps Can Survivors Take to Seek Justice Under the Child Victims Act of 2023?
If you or someone you know is living with the trauma of child sexual abuse, seeking justice is a deeply personal and courageous decision. You are not alone in this journey, and supportive resources are available. Prioritize your well-being and seek the emotional support you need.
Reach out to trusted individuals who can provide a safe and understanding space for you to share your experiences. Organizations that help child sexual abuse survivors can also offer invaluable guidance and a network of individuals who can empathize with your situation.
We Help Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse – Call Us Today
When you feel ready, consider contacting an attorney who handles child sexual abuse cases. With years of experience handling clergy sexual abuse cases, our team at Jenner Law understands the sensitivity needed to navigate the legal process. Our attorneys will explain your rights and legal options for justice. Contact us today for a free consultation.