Erie Clergy Abuse Survivor Rights and Legal Options

People who experienced sexual abuse by clergy or another person connected with a religious organization in Erie may have civil legal options. The deadline to file depends on a survivor’s age, the facts, and current Pennsylvania law. This page shares Erie-specific contacts and general information; it cannot determine the deadline for an individual claim.

Diocese of Erie victim assistance

The Diocese of Erie lists its victim assistance coordinator for counseling assistance to victims and families at 814-451-1521. It also lists 814-451-1543 for reporting abuse to the Diocese. The Diocese encourages people who experienced abuse or misconduct by church personnel to contact law enforcement. A diocesan report is separate from a civil legal consultation.

Reporting suspected child abuse

Call 911 if a child is in immediate danger. Pennsylvania ChildLine accepts reports of suspected child abuse 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 1-800-932-0313. The Erie Diocese also directs reports involving a child in immediate danger to 911 and suspected abuse to ChildLine.

Pennsylvania filing deadlines

42 Pa.C.S. § 5533 provides special time rules for certain civil claims involving childhood sexual abuse. Whether a rule applies depends on its statutory requirements and the specific facts. Please speak with a Pennsylvania attorney promptly about possible claims, deadlines, and potential defendants rather than relying on a general webpage to calculate time limits.

Preparing for a confidential consultation

• Note approximate dates, locations, organizations, and names, if known.
• Keep relevant documents and communications.
• Ask about confidentiality, time limits, possible claims, and survivor resources.

This page is general educational information, not legal advice. Contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship unless both you and the firm agree to one.