Snyder County Clergy Abuse Survivor Rights

Information reviewed November 7, 2026. This guide explains Snyder County clergy abuse survivor rights and provides general information for people affected by sexual abuse connected to clergy or religious organizations in Snyder County, Pennsylvania. It is not legal advice and does not determine whether a particular claim is timely.

Support and reporting in Snyder County

You can seek confidential support without deciding whether to report abuse or pursue a legal claim. Transitions of PA is a free, voluntary, confidential crime victim center serving Snyder, Union, and Northumberland Counties. Its 24-hour crisis hotline is 1-800-850-7948. Advocates can help with immediate support, safety planning, counseling, legal or court-related assistance, and referrals.

The Snyder County Victim/Witness Program is a free service for adult and juvenile crime victims. It provides victim-rights information, court accompaniment, crisis intervention, advocacy, and referrals. The county lists Victim/Witness Coordinator Laurie Wilson at 570-837-4232. For suspected child abuse, contact Pennsylvania ChildLine at 1-800-932-0313. Call 911 or local police if someone is in immediate danger.

For abuse involving Catholic clergy, employees, or volunteers, the Diocese of Harrisburg lists Michelle Shae as Victim Assistance Coordinator. The confidential Youth Protection Hotline is 1-800-626-1608, and the Diocese lists reportabuse@hbgdiocese.org for reports. The Diocese directs people to contact Pennsylvania ChildLine first when reporting suspected child abuse. Reporting to a church does not replace contacting law enforcement or ChildLine where appropriate.

Snyder County court information

Middleburg is the county seat. The Snyder County Courthouse is at 9 West Market Street, Middleburg, PA 17842. The Prothonotary, which handles many civil filings, is listed at 570-837-4202. Court Administration is listed at 570-837-4344. Check current hours and filing procedures with the appropriate office before visiting.

Pennsylvania filing deadlines for childhood sexual abuse

Deadlines depend on a survivor’s age, when the abuse occurred, the defendant, and the claims involved. Under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5533(b)(2), a civil action for damages arising from sexual abuse that occurred when the person was under 18 generally may be brought within 37 years after the person reaches age 18 (through age 55). The statute also provides a deadline through age 30 for certain civil actions arising from sexual abuse that occurred when a person was at least 18 but under 24. Statutory definitions and case-specific facts can affect how these provisions apply.

Many personal-injury claims are subject to a two-year limitation period under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5524. Claims involving a government unit may also raise written-notice requirements under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5522, which can require notice within six months, subject to exceptions. These rules may interact. Get advice based on the facts of a particular matter rather than relying on a general deadline.

As of November 7, 2026, House Bills 462 and 464 have not been enacted and have not created a new civil lookback window. They remain in the Senate after passing the House. Legislative status and court interpretations can change, so promptly verify the law with a Pennsylvania attorney.

Options for survivors and families

Survivors may choose to speak with an advocate or counselor, make a report, ask an institution about safeguarding and record preservation, or consult a lawyer about civil options. You can seek support without deciding whether to take legal action. Consider preserving information such as approximate dates, locations, names, correspondence, and prior reports. If you have questions about a possible deadline, do not delay seeking legal advice.

Sean Logue has represented hundreds of survivors of abuse connected to the Boy Scouts of America and children abused in Pennsylvania detention centers. Each matter depends on its own facts; no result is guaranteed. For statewide information, see the Pennsylvania child sexual abuse survivor rights and filing deadlines guide.

Sources and disclaimer

Local support, court, and reporting details are linked above. Additional official sources: Pennsylvania Courts Prothonotaries directory, Pennsylvania Courts Court Administrators directory, Pennsylvania ChildLine, and the Pennsylvania General Assembly pages for HB 462 and HB 464. This page is for general information only, not legal advice. Contact an attorney about your circumstances and any possible deadline.