Washington · Sex abuse claims in the Catholic Church
Sex abuse claims in the Catholic Church in Washington
See If You Qualify
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01 · Your filing deadline
What is the deadline in Washington?
Washington: Civil SOL extends to age 30 (12 years after majority). No active lookback window as of 2026. A lawyer can confirm yours.
Deadlines vary; a lawyer can confirm yours. An older diagnosis or a past filing window does not, by itself, establish whether you have a claim.
02 · Where cases are heard
Where would my case be heard?
Washington State survivors of Catholic clergy abuse may file civil claims until age 30 under the state's extended SOL, with discovery rule tolling available. The Seattle Archdiocese settled over 100 claims and has extensive credibly accused clergy disclosures. No active lookback window as of 2026.
Washington State's civil statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse extends 12 years after the survivor turns 18, capped at age 30. Washington does not have an active lookback window as of February 2026. No active bankruptcy proceedings exist in Washington as of February 2026. Survivors under age 30 should consult an attorney.
How this works nationally
For the overall process and updates, read the Sex abuse claims in the Catholic Church overview. This page covers the local information available for Washington.
What happens when I check?
You answer a few short questions about what happened. If you send them, your answers are kept on file. If a participating law firm takes these cases, it may contact you. People's Justice is not a law firm.
Live in Washington? Read what applies in your state.
Register your interest. If a participating law firm takes these cases, it may contact you.
Register your interest