Statute of Limitations
Michigan HB 4485 (signed January 2025) extends the civil statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse to age 42 or 10 years from the date of discovery, whichever is later. A discovery rule applies, recognizing that institutional abuse survivors often do not connect their psychological injuries to the abuse until well into adulthood. For physical abuse claims, the standard 3-year personal injury SOL applies with tolling for minors.
Until age 42 or 10 years from discovery for childhood sexual abuse; 3-year SOL for physical abuse (tolled during minority)
Where to File in Michigan
Michigan juvenile detention abuse cases are filed in the circuit court of the county where the facility was located. Wayne County Circuit Court (Detroit) handles the largest volume of cases given the concentration of juvenile facilities in the greater Detroit area. Claims against the state (Michigan Department of Health and Human Services) may be filed in the Court of Claims. Federal Section 1983 claims are filed in the Eastern District of Michigan (Detroit) or Western District (Grand Rapids).
Exposure in Michigan
Source: Michigan DHHS
Source: Michigan HB 4485 (2025)
Source: BJS National Survey