Sullivan County Clergy Abuse Survivor Rights

Information reviewed November 6, 2026. This guide explains Sullivan County clergy abuse survivor rights and provides general information for people affected by sexual abuse connected to clergy or religious organizations in Sullivan County, Pennsylvania. It is not legal advice and does not determine whether a particular claim is timely.

Support and reporting in Sullivan County

You can seek confidential support without deciding whether to report abuse or pursue a legal claim. Sullivan County Victim Services provides free and confidential support for crime victims, including survivors of sexual violence. Its 24-hour local hotline is 570-946-4215; the non-local hotline is 1-800-894-3706. Advocates can provide support and help with court-related options. Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.

For suspected child abuse, contact Pennsylvania ChildLine at 1-800-932-0313. The Diocese of Scranton also instructs people to report suspected child abuse to ChildLine. A report to a religious organization does not replace contacting ChildLine or law enforcement when appropriate.

Sullivan County is within the Diocese of Scranton. The Diocese lists Mary Beth Pacuska as Victim Assistance Coordinator at 570-862-7551 for reports involving clergy, employees, or volunteers of the Catholic Church. The Diocese encourages contacting local police or the county District Attorney as well. These are separate reporting channels, and survivors may choose which sources of support to contact.

Sullivan County court information

Laporte is the county seat. The Sullivan County Courthouse is at 245 Muncy Street, Laporte, PA 18626. The Prothonotary’s Office, which handles civil filings, is in Suite 100 and can be reached at 570-946-7351. The county’s main courthouse number is 570-946-5201. Confirm current procedures and hours 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 6, 2026, House Bills 462 and 464 have not been enacted and have not created a new civil lookback window. The bills 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, Sullivan County courthouse contact information, Diocese of Scranton reporting information, 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.