With the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) bankruptcy deadline today, many victims are wondering what happens next.
As of tomorrow, victims are no longer able to file claims against BSA in the Bankruptcy Court. They are, however, allowed to file claims against BSA’s local councils after several states extended their statute of limitations, enabling victims to come forward when they weren’t eligible to do so previously.
For more information on what this means and how victims can find help when filing claims, continue reading below.
I filed a bankruptcy claim. Now what?
Following the November 16, 2020 deadline, the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware will decide the legitimacy of each claim and whether to award compensation to a claimant. Payout is based on several factors, including the information presented in each victim’s claim form.
This process could take the Bankruptcy Court several months to a few years to reach a decision regarding claims. During this time, an attorney isn’t able to give you a finite payout date or number. We encourage victims to remain patient during this time, as the process will be worth it in the end.
Which states extended their statute of limitations?
Within the last year, several states, including Arizona, California, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, and Washington, D.C. passed legislation under the Child Victims Act to extend their look back window to revive barred or expired cases.
These changes allow victims to file a suit in the court systems of those states against other Scout-related entities—separate from the bankruptcy. This includes Boy Scout local councils, and Boy Scout and Cub Scout Troop sponsoring organizations, like the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (also known as the LDS Church or Mormon Church).
Deadlines vary by state, so make sure to review the official close date with an attorney to ensure enough time to file claims.
It’s important to note that this change in legislation does not impact claims filed in the bankruptcy court. Following the November 16 deadline, BSA’s assets will be dispersed among victims in a court-approved bankruptcy plan.
Who can help me file claims?
If you’re unsure where your sexual abuse case falls, contact a trusted attorney as soon as possible to file claims.
Law firms across the country are helping sexual abuse victims file claims against BSA in the Bankruptcy Court up until the deadline. They’re also helping file claims against BSA’s local councils to maximize the amount of money available to victims under the look back window extension.
While it’s difficult to relive painful memories from your past, in our experience as advocates for sexual abuse victims, it’s only by filing claims will you receive the closure you deserve.
Contact Us to File a Claim Against the Boy Scouts of America
Contact us today. Your consultation is absolutely free. It’s only after we secure a settlement for you that we receive any form of compensation.
