The Boy Scouts Abuse Lawsuit: Your Guide To Filing A Claim And Pursuing Legal Action

Sexual Abuse In The Boy Scouts: What Happened And How It Impacts Survivors

The Boy Scouts of America is among the largest youth-oriented organizations in the U.S. It has over 1 million youth members between the ages of 5 and 21 and over 600,000 volunteers who hold positions in local councils throughout the nation.

While the program was designed to help males learn real-world skills to help them shape their future, allegations of abuse over the past couple of decades have tainted the mission and vision behind the organization.

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Bachus & Schanker Wins – Over $1 Billion Recovered

These allegations came to light in the early 2000s, and in 2010, the Boy Scouts of America was ordered by a jury to pay 18.5 million dollars in punitive damages to a Portland, Oregon man, Kerry Lewis. Lewis successfully argued his case 30 years after he said the abuse happened at the hands of a scout leader in the 1980s.

Lewis’s lawsuit would go on to be a landmark case, opening the floodgates for a flurry of lawsuits that would follow.

In 2020, there were over 200 pending lawsuits throughout state and federal courts against the organization. The Boy Scouts would go on to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to restructure the organization to pay out survivors. After the bankruptcy settlement, the organization agreed to put over $2.4 billion dollars into a fund created for survivors.

If you were, unfortunately, a victim of sexual abuse while in the Boy Scouts, we are sorry that this has happened to you. We also want you to know that you have legal rights and options and do not have to navigate the road ahead alone. Speaking with an experienced sexual abuse lawyer is the best way to understand your legal rights and what actions you should take to recover the justice you deserve.

Survivors Of Boy Scouts Abuse: Your Legal Rights And Options

If you were a victim of sexual abuse at the hands of volunteers, counselors, or other officials or members of the Boy Scouts, you have legal rights and options. This landmark lawsuit helped set a precedent that victims of sexual assault cases can pursue legal action even if their assault happened years in the past.

Children are especially vulnerable because of a fear of speaking out, an inability to speak out, and pressure from other adults and authority figures that may keep them from seeking justice for the abuse they’ve endured.

If you were victimized while in the Boy Scouts, a Boy Scouts sexual abuse lawyer can help you understand your rights. Speak with a Boy Scouts of America sex abuse lawyer at Bachus & Schanker to share your story, explore your legal options, and hold your abuser accountable. Our attorneys can determine if you have a case and help you file the appropriate legal documents.

How To Report And Hold Perpetrators Accountable

The Boy Scouts of America have established clear guidelines for youth safety while Scouts are enrolled in the program. There’s also a hotline that Scouts and their families can call if they suspect abuse or inappropriate behavior.

The Scout’s First Helpline at 1-844-SCOUTS1 or 1-844-726-8871 is available 24/7. Victims can also email the organization at scouts1st@scouting.org.

If you have been the victim of Boy Scouts sexual abuse or suspect a loved one has been victimized, it’s important to also speak with an attorney as well. A Boy Scouts sexual abuse lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and help you create a plan of action to move forward on your healing journey.

How Our Legal Team Can Help You Seek Justice

At Bachus & Schanker, our attorneys can help you understand whether you have a case. If you have one, we will help you understand what legal options are available, how to collect pertinent evidence, and how to move forward on your path to healing. You also gain access to our Victim’s Advocates team, who will be by your side, acting as a liaison and ensuring your rights are protected and you have access to necessary resources.

Taking action early on can also help stop the abuse and hold your abuser accountable. Contact our team today to schedule your free case evaluation and learn more about your legal rights and options.

How Abuse Affects Survivors Physically, Emotionally, And Psychologically

Statutes of limitations for victims of sexual assault are some of the longest statutes on record because of the devastating effects the abuse has on victims. Unlike other crimes, sexual assault takes a toll on a person’s mind, body, and spirit.

Many victims will go on to battle other struggles like substance use and mental health challenges because of the trauma they’ve endured during the assault.

Long-Term Impact Of Sexual Abuse On Boy Scouts Survivors

The physical scars of a sexual assault may fade, but the mental trauma can leave a mark on a victim that will last a lifetime. Many victims of sexual assault will go on to experience long-term effects, including:

Chronic depression and anxiety
Post-traumatic stress disorders
Panic attacks and other mental health struggles

Healing From Boy Scouts Abuse: Resources For Mental Health And Recovery

In addition to providing essential legal support, our team can help connect you to different resources for your mental health and recovery. Learn more about our resources for sexual assault victims and take the next step toward your healing.

How Our Attorneys Can Help You Pursue Justice For Boy Scouts Abuse

At Bachus & Schanker, our attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and options, create a plan of action, and support you as you move through the justice system.

Our team will help explain the legal process as you move through it so that you feel confident and empowered to hold your abuser accountable. Our dedicated Victim’s Advocates team serves victims of sexual assault, providing specialized care and ensuring you are not alone as you navigate the road ahead.

Speak with one of our experienced sexual assault attorneys today for expert legal guidance, advocacy, and compensation for the trauma you’ve endured.

Frequently Asked Questions About Boy Scouts Abuse Claims

Filing A Claim For Boy Scouts Sexual Abuse: What Should I Expect?

All claims are unique, and the best way to determine the outcome of your case is by scheduling a free case of evaluation with the experienced sexual abuse lawyers at Bachus & Schanker. Our team will explain the legal process, what to expect during filing, and the different outcomes that may exist in your case.

How Do I Support A Loved One Who’s Experienced Abuse In The Boy Scouts?

Being a pillar of support, listening, and offering judgment-free advice can help a survivor feel heard, valued, and loved. Check in with survivors regularly and don’t force them to talk about their experiences; instead, be a safe place where they can do so when they’re ready.

Why Is It Important To Hold Perpetrators and Institutions Accountable?

Holding perpetrators accountable not only sends a message that sexual assault will not be tolerated, but it’s another way to help victims reclaim their power.

Legal Options for Survivors and How To Get Started

Sexual abuse survivors in the Boy Scouts have rights and options, even if their case is years in the past. Schedule a free case consultation with an experienced attorney to learn about your rights and how to get started.