Washington County Clergy Abuse Survivor Rights and Legal Options

This guide provides Washington County information for survivors of clergy sexual abuse, including confidential support, reporting options, local court contacts, and general Pennsylvania filing rules. Each survivor’s situation is different. A lawyer can assess the facts and deadlines in a confidential consultation; this page is general information, not legal advice.

Confidential survivor support

The STTARS Program provides free and confidential support for survivors of sexual assault and abuse in Washington County. Its 24-hour hotline is 1-888-480-7283; its Washington office can be reached at 724-229-5007. Advocates can offer support, information, and referrals. You do not need to decide whether to make a report or pursue a civil claim before contacting a support service.

Reporting church-related abuse

Washington County is within the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh. The diocese lists a toll-free number, 1-888-808-1235, for reporting church-related abuse and reaching victim assistance. Survivors may also report to law enforcement or seek advice from an attorney of their choosing. For suspected child abuse, call Pennsylvania ChildLine at 1-800-932-0313; it operates 24 hours a day. Call 911 if a child is in immediate danger.

Washington County court and filings

The Washington County Prothonotary is the civil clerk for the Court of Common Pleas. The office is at 95 West Beau Street, Suite 510, Washington, PA 15301, and can be reached at 724-228-6770. The county says civil e-filing has been mandatory since January 1, 2025, subject to exceptions under local rules or administrative orders. Confirm the current filing method, court, fees, and requirements with the Prothonotary or counsel before filing.

Pennsylvania civil filing deadlines

Under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5533(b)(2), certain civil damages actions arising from sexual abuse that occurred when a survivor was under 18 may be filed within 37 years after turning 18, generally through age 55. The statute also covers specified sexual activity involving a person age 23 or younger and an adult when the legal coercion requirements are met; the deadline for those claims generally extends to age 30. The statutory definitions and exceptions matter, and these periods do not apply identically to every claim.

Many personal injury actions are subject to a two-year limitation under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5524. Claims against government entities can involve additional rules, including written notice requirements under § 5522, with exceptions. Do not rely on a general summary to determine whether a claim is timely. A prompt, individualized review can help identify the rules that apply.

Legislative status

As of November 7, 2026, House Bills 462 and 464—proposals addressing civil claims for childhood sexual abuse—have not become law. The Pennsylvania General Assembly lists both in the Senate; the latest action shown is June 23, 2026. Neither bill creates an open lookback window at this time. Survivors should check current law and get advice about their specific circumstances.

Sean Logue has represented hundreds of survivors of abuse connected to the Boy Scouts of America and children abused in Pennsylvania detention centers. Read our Pennsylvania sexual abuse survivor rights and filing deadlines guide for statewide information.