If you're a survivor of child sexual abuse in Maryland, a powerful new law may give you the chance to seek justice—even if the abuse happened decades ago. This page explains the Maryland Child Victims Act in plain language: what it does, how it helps survivors, and why taking action now is more important than ever.
What Is the Maryland Child Victims Act?
The Maryland Child Victims Act of 2023 is a new state law that allows survivors of child sexual abuse to file civil lawsuits, no matter how long ago the abuse occurred. Before this law, survivors were often blocked from suing because too much time had passed. Now, there is no statute of limitations—which means you can come forward whenever you are ready.
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This law recognizes that survivors may need years—or even decades—before they feel safe or strong enough to tell their story. With this act, Maryland has removed that legal barrier.
Why Was This Law Passed?
For many years, survivors and advocates fought to change Maryland’s outdated laws. Research shows that most survivors of child sexual abuse don’t come forward until well into adulthood—often in their 40s or later. But previous laws shut them out of court if too much time had passed.
The Child Victims Act was passed to correct that injustice and give survivors a real chance to hold abusers and enabling institutions accountable.
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Key Points
No Statute of Limitations
Survivors can file lawsuits for child sexual abuse regardless of when it happened.
Covers Public and Private Institutions
You can sue individuals, schools, churches, detention centers, or other entities that failed to protect you.
Available Compensation
If the abuse happened in a state-run facility (like a juvenile detention center), your total compensation is available for up to $890,000 per incident.
Are There Any Deadlines?
As of now, there is no deadline for filing a claim under the Child Victims Act. However, future legislation could impose new limits or reduce what survivors can recover—so it’s smart to act sooner rather than later.
Why It’s Urgent to Act Now
While the law currently allows for higher compensation in lawsuits against state-run institutions (up to $890,000), lawmakers are already discussing lowering this cap.
In March 2025, a proposal was introduced to reduce the cap to $400,000 per incident.
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That means the window to file a lawsuit while the current cap is in place may not be open forever. If you wait, you could lose the chance to receive the full compensation allowed today.
What Should You Do Next?
If you think you may have a claim under the Maryland Child Victims Act:
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Talk to an attorney who understands the law. Abuse cases are emotional and complex. You deserve to work with someone who’s handled cases like yours and can explain your rights clearly.
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Start the process. Even if you’re unsure about filing, a free consultation can help you understand your options.
You Deserve Justice. We’re Here to Help.
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Seeking Justice Together
At Slater Slater Schulman LLP, we’re deeply familiar with the Maryland Child Victims Act. We’re already representing survivors across the state—and we’re here to help you, too.
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Contact us today for a free, confidential case review. Don’t wait until the law changes. The time to act is now.