Guide to Filing a Claim
If you're considering taking legal action under the Maryland Child Victims Act, you may feel overwhelmed by the legal process. That’s completely normal—and that’s why we created this step-by-step guide. Here, you’ll learn exactly what happens after you contact us, how the legal process works, and what you can expect every step of the way.
Most importantly: You don’t need to do this alone. We can handle the entire process for you—with no attorneys' fees unless we win.
Step 1: Free, Confidential Consultation
When you reach out, we’ll set up a private, no-obligation consultation. You’ll talk with a compassionate legal professional who understands these sensitive cases. We’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your rights under the Maryland Child Victims Act.
Step 2: Investigation & Case Building
If you decide to move forward, our legal team begins investigating your case. This might include:
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Requesting records from the facility where the abuse occurred
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Interviewing witnesses or identifying other survivors
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Reviewing past complaints or government reports
You don’t need to provide everything up front—we’ll handle the legwork. All conversations and materials are confidential.
Step 3: Filing the Lawsuit
Once we’ve built your case, we’ll file a civil claim against the individual abuser and/or the institution responsible (such as a juvenile detention center or school). If your abuse occurred at a state-run facility, the case may be filed against the State of Maryland.
Step 4: Case Grouping or Mass Tort Consolidation
Given the large number of survivors coming forward, many cases will be grouped together into a mass tort. This allows similar claims to be processed efficiently while still giving each survivor an individual voice.
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You will not be part of a class action. Instead, your case is handled individually but may move through the courts alongside others like it.
Step 5: Settlement Negotiations or Trial
The State of Maryland may choose to settle valid claims before trial. We’ll negotiate directly on your behalf and push for the maximum compensation allowed by law—up to $890,000 per incident for claims against state-run institutions (as of now).
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If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we’re prepared to take your case to trial. You pay no fees unless we win.
Step 6: Resolution and Compensation
Once a settlement or verdict is reached, you’ll receive your compensation. These funds can help support your healing, provide financial stability, and offer some measure of justice.
Why Act Now?
There’s no deadline under the current law—but lawmakers are considering changes that may reduce how much survivors can recover. In March 2025, legislators introduced a bill to lower the cap from $890,000 to $400,000 per incident. That’s why it’s critical to file now, before any changes take effect.
You Focus on Healing.
We’ll Handle the Legal Work.
At Slater Slater Schulman LLP, we’ve helped many survivors file claims under the Maryland Child Victims Act. We understand the emotional toll these cases can take, and we’ll handle every legal step so you can focus on your recovery.
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Contact us today for your free, confidential consultation. There’s no cost to file, and you pay no fees unless we win your case.
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Submit our online contact form here, or call us toll-free at (888) 717-2688.