Scranton Clergy Abuse Survivor Rights and Legal Options

Survivors of sexual abuse by clergy or another person connected with a religious organization in Scranton may have civil legal options. Filing deadlines depend on age, the facts, and current Pennsylvania law. This page shares local support contacts and general information, not a decision about any individual claim.

Diocese of Scranton victim assistance

The Diocese of Scranton lists Victim Assistance Coordinator Mary Beth Pacuska at 570-862-7551. The coordinator facilitates pastoral care and can discuss support and referrals for people who report abuse as minors by clergy. The Diocese also encourages people reporting church-related abuse to contact local law enforcement or the county District Attorney. A diocesan report is separate from a civil legal consultation.

Reporting suspected child abuse

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

Pennsylvania civil claim deadlines

42 Pa.C.S. § 5533 includes special time rules for certain civil claims involving childhood sexual abuse. Whether a rule applies depends on statutory requirements and the specific facts. Speak with a Pennsylvania attorney promptly about possible claims, potential defendants, and deadlines. Do not rely on general webpage information to calculate a filing date.

Preparing for a confidential consultation

• Write down approximate dates, places, institutions, and names involved, if known.
• Preserve relevant communications, records, and photographs.
• Ask about confidentiality, potential claims, deadlines, 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.