Pennsylvania Clergy Abuse Survivor Seeks Justice as Lawmakers Remain Deadlocked

A Survivor’s Battle Against Time and Legal Barriers

A Pennsylvania clergy abuse survivor is speaking out about his struggle to seek justice as state lawmakers continue to stall legislation that would allow past victims to file lawsuits. Despite growing calls for reform, legislative deadlock has prevented the passage of a bill that would open a temporary window for survivors whose cases are currently barred by statutes of limitations.

For years, Pennsylvania survivors have urged lawmakers to follow the example of neighboring states by allowing victims to hold both individual perpetrators and the institutions that protected them accountable. Unfortunately, without legislative action, many survivors remain unable to pursue legal claims, even as they continue to deal with the lasting trauma of their abuse.

Pennsylvania’s Legal Roadblocks for Clergy Abuse Survivors

Under current Pennsylvania law, victims of childhood sexual abuse can file civil lawsuits until they turn 30 and pursue criminal charges until they turn 50. However, for those whose abuse occurred decades ago, these legal deadlines mean their cases are effectively closed—regardless of the evidence or the harm they endured.

Several attempts to pass a law that would create a two-year "lookback window" for survivors have failed due to political infighting and legal technicalities. While other states, such as New York and New Jersey, have enacted similar measures, Pennsylvania lawmakers have yet to take decisive action.

For survivors, this inaction not only denies them justice but also allows abusers and the institutions that enabled them to avoid accountability. Without a legal path forward, victims are left with few options, reinforcing the systemic failures that allowed the abuse to occur in the first place.

Ashley DiLiberto, Esq. – Advocating for Clergy Abuse Survivors

At Survivors of Abuse PA, we believe no survivor should be denied justice due to legislative inaction. Attorney Ashley DiLiberto, Esq., is committed to helping victims of clergy sexual abuse explore every possible legal avenue. Even with Pennsylvania’s restrictive laws, there may be alternative options for seeking justice and holding abusers accountable.

Ashley DiLiberto, Esq. understands the emotional and legal complexities of these cases. She works tirelessly to support survivors, offering compassionate guidance and aggressive legal representation. Whether through civil lawsuits, negotiations, or exploring out-of-state legal options, she is dedicated to ensuring that survivors have a voice and the ability to seek the justice they deserve.

Take Action – You Are Not Alone

The trauma of clergy sexual abuse does not fade with time, and neither should a survivor’s right to seek justice. While Pennsylvania lawmakers debate the future of legal reforms, survivors should know that help is available now.

If you or a loved one has experienced clergy sexual abuse, Survivors of Abuse PA is here to help. Contact us at (267) 502-9090 or visit SurvivorsOfAbusePA.com for a free consultation. You don’t have to fight this battle alone—our team is here to stand with you.

Source:

https://www.exploreclarion.com/state-news/2025/02/27/clergy-abuse-survivor-battles-time-and-deadlocked-pa-lawmakers-as-he-seeks-justice-839848/