Union County Clergy Abuse Survivor Rights

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

Support and reporting in Union County

You can seek confidential support without deciding whether to report abuse or pursue a legal claim. Transitions of PA serves Union County and provides free, voluntary, confidential services to survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, human trafficking, and other violent crimes. Its 24-hour crisis hotline is 1-800-850-7948. Advocates can provide safety planning, counseling and referrals, and legal or court-related support. Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.

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

Union County is within the Diocese of Harrisburg. The Diocese lists Michelle Shae as Victim Assistance Coordinator at 717-657-4804, extension 234. For reports of suspected child sexual abuse, the Diocese lists its toll-free reporting line at 1-800-626-1608 and ReportAbuse@hbgdiocese.org. These church channels are separate from civil reporting.

Union County court information

Lewisburg is the county seat. The Union County Courthouse is at 103 South Second Street, Lewisburg, PA 17837. The Prothonotary, which handles civil filings, is on the first floor and can be reached at 570-524-8751. Court Administration is at the courthouse and can be reached at 570-524-8736. The county lists regular weekday hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Confirm current 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 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, Union County Court Administration, Diocese of Harrisburg reporting contacts, Pennsylvania ChildLine, and Pennsylvania General Assembly status 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.