Sex abuse claims in the Catholic Church in North Dakota

North Dakota's civil statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse extends 7 years after the survivor turns 18, capped at age 25. North Dakota does not have an active lookback window as of February 2026. The Diocese of Bismarck and Diocese of Fargo have both published credibly accused clergy lists. No North Dakota diocese has filed for bankruptcy. Most adult survivors of historical clergy abuse in North Dakota face significant SOL barriers under the short standard window. Survivors should consult an attorney about discovery rule tolling possibilities.

North Dakota's Fargo and Bismarck dioceses jointly released a list of 53 clergy with substantiated abuse allegations, most dating to the 1950s through 1980s. Reform efforts to open a two-year revival window have been introduced in the Legislature, but the revival provision was stripped in committee, so no lookback is currently open. Clergy claims are filed in the North Dakota District Court for the county where the abuse occurred, and the statute reaches negligent institutions, not just the perpetrator. Survivors uncertain about their deadline should have it reviewed rather than assume it has passed. Confidential, believe-first support is available through RAINN at 1-800-656-4673 and SNAP.