Pittsburgh Clergy Abuse Survivor Rights and Legal Options

Survivors of sexual abuse by clergy or another person connected with a religious organization in Pittsburgh may have legal options. The time to bring a civil claim depends on the survivor’s age, the facts, and current Pennsylvania law. A prompt, confidential conversation with a Pennsylvania attorney can help assess deadlines and available claims.

Pittsburgh survivor support

Center for Victims provides a local 24-hour support hotline at 1-866-644-2882. Pittsburgh Action Against Rape (PAAR) also operates a 24/7 hotline at 1-866-END-RAPE (1-866-363-7273). These agencies can offer support and referrals. Their services are separate from legal advice about a civil claim.

The Diocese of Pittsburgh lists its Victim Assistance Coordinator at 412-456-3093, ext. 3712, or toll-free at 1-888-808-1235, for people reporting sexual abuse by a bishop, priest, deacon, or representative of that Diocese. Its hotline hours are listed as Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; voicemail may be left outside those hours. A diocesan report does not replace a report to public authorities or a consultation about civil claims.

Reporting current child abuse

If a child is in immediate danger, call 911. Pennsylvania ChildLine accepts reports of suspected child abuse 24 hours a day at 1-800-932-0313. The Diocese also directs current-minor reports to ChildLine.

Deadlines under Pennsylvania law

42 Pa.C.S. § 5533 includes special time rules for certain claims involving childhood sexual abuse. Whether a rule applies depends on statutory requirements and the facts. This page does not determine whether a particular claim is timely. Speak with a Pennsylvania attorney promptly rather than relying on general information to calculate a deadline.

Preparing to speak with counsel

• Record approximate dates, locations, institutions, and names, if you can.
• Preserve messages, documents, and other relevant records.
• Ask about confidentiality, potential defendants, deadlines, and support resources.

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