York County Clergy Abuse Survivor Rights and Legal Options

This guide summarizes local support, reporting options, court contacts, and general Pennsylvania filing rules for survivors of clergy sexual abuse in York County. Each survivor’s circumstances are different. A confidential consultation with an attorney can help evaluate possible claims and deadlines. This page is general information, not legal advice.

Confidential survivor support

YWCA York Victim Services / ACCESS York provides free, confidential support for survivors of sexual assault and other violence. Its 24-hour hotline is 717-846-5400 or toll-free at 1-800-262-8444. Services include counseling, advocacy, medical support, court accompaniment, and help navigating civil protection proceedings. York County Victim Services can also be reached at 1-877-326-8262 or 717-771-9600. Contacting a support organization does not require you to report to police or file a lawsuit.

Reporting church-related abuse

York County is within the Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg. The diocese lists Michelle Shae as Victim Assistance Coordinator at 717-657-4804, extension 234. The diocesan reporting hotline is 1-800-626-1608; the diocese directs people reporting child sexual abuse to call Pennsylvania ChildLine first at 1-800-932-0313. Survivors may also report to local law enforcement or the York County District Attorney. Call 911 if a child is in immediate danger.

York County court contact

The York County Prothonotary is located at the York County Judicial Center, 45 North George Street, York, PA 17401. The office’s filing phone number is 717-771-9611; filing hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call to confirm filing procedures, fees, and document requirements. The York County Court Self-Help Center may provide procedural information to people representing themselves in civil and family litigation.

Pennsylvania civil filing deadlines

Under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5533(b)(2), certain civil damages actions arising from sexual abuse that occurred when the survivor was under 18 may be brought within 37 years after turning 18, generally through age 55. The statute also provides a deadline through age 30 for certain claims based on sexual abuse occurring when the claimant was at least 18 and under 24, with specified sexual activity and forcible-compulsion requirements. Definitions, exceptions, and other rules apply, and the deadline depends on the claim and facts.

Many personal injury claims are subject to a two-year limitation under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5524. Claims involving government entities can carry additional requirements, including written notice under § 5522, subject to exceptions. Do not rely on a general overview to decide whether a deadline has passed. Get an individualized review promptly because different claims may have different time limits.

Legislative status

As of November 7, 2026, Pennsylvania House Bills 462 and 464, which proposed changes related to civil claims for childhood sexual abuse, have not become law. The General Assembly lists both bills in the Senate, with the latest action shown as June 23, 2026. Neither bill currently creates an open lookback period. Survivors should check current law and obtain 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. For statewide information, read our Pennsylvania sexual abuse survivor rights and filing deadlines guide.