Tioga County Clergy Abuse Survivor Rights

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

Support and reporting in Tioga County

You can seek confidential support without deciding whether to report abuse or pursue a legal claim. HAVEN of Tioga County provides crisis advocacy and related support for survivors, including sexual assault survivors. The county lists HAVEN at 570-724-3549; its hotline is available 24 hours a day. Advocates can provide information, referrals, and accompaniment for medical or court proceedings. Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.

The Tioga County Victim Services program assists crime victims and witnesses and is listed at 570-724-1350. For suspected child abuse, contact Pennsylvania ChildLine at 1-800-932-0313. A report to a religious organization does not replace contacting ChildLine or law enforcement when appropriate.

Tioga 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.

Tioga County court information

Wellsboro is the county seat. The Tioga County Courthouse is at 116 Main Street, Wellsboro, PA 16901. The Prothonotary, which handles civil filings, can be reached at 570-724-9281. Court Administration is listed at 570-724-9380. 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, Tioga County Court Administration, 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.