Pennsylvania Sexual Abuse Lawyer
If you were harmed in Pennsylvania, you can speak with a survivor-first attorney here, privately and at your own pace. You set the speed; we handle the law.
Your local attorneyEric Weitz, Esq.
Justice in Pennsylvania
You can pursue accountability in Pennsylvania, and you do not have to do it alone.
If you were sexually abused in Pennsylvania, you may have the right to bring a civil claim against the person who harmed you and, in many cases, the institution that enabled it. Pennsylvania has reformed its laws in recent years to give more survivors a path to the courtroom, and a local attorney can tell you in plain language whether your claim is still open and what it would involve. A civil case is separate from any criminal case. It is yours to control. Its purpose is recognition of what happened, accountability for those responsible, and resources for your healing, on terms you decide. You are believed here, and the first conversation is confidential and free.Time limits do apply, and they vary by state. Many states have recently expanded or reopened the window to file. A free, confidential call simply tells you where you stand — no pressure, no obligation.
Your local attorney
Eric H. Weitz, Esq.
The Weitz Firm, LLC
- 1515 Market Street, Suite 1100, Philadelphia, PA 19102
- Admitted: Pennsylvania, 1992 · Bar #PA Attorney ID 65514
- Villanova University School of Law, J.D. cum laude (1992)
Handles: Child sexual abuse, Institutional & clergy abuse, Sexual assault, Catastrophic injury & civil rights
Why survivors trust us
Real attorneys. Proven results. Quiet strength.
Deadlines in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania's statute of limitations for sexual abuse cases.
Pennsylvania's laws set deadlines for survivors of sexual abuse to file civil claims, and those rules vary depending on individual circumstances. Because the requirements differ and the law continues to evolve, the only reliable answer comes from a lawyer who reviews your specific facts.- Child sexual abuse (civil): Pennsylvania law provides civil options for many survivors abused as minors, and the rules governing these claims have expanded in recent years.
- Child sexual abuse (criminal): Pennsylvania has significantly changed its criminal rules for prosecuting sexual offenses against children, and those changes continue to develop.
- Adults abused as adults (civil): Pennsylvania law provides civil claim options for adults who were sexually abused, and the applicable rules depend on the facts of each case.
- Older claims: Legislation affecting older claims has been actively debated in Harrisburg and is subject to ongoing legislative and constitutional change. An attorney can help you understand what options may be available under current Pennsylvania law.
What we handle in Pennsylvania
Cases our Pennsylvania attorney pursues
If your experience is not listed here, ask anyway. Many abuse cases involve institutions that failed to protect you.
Child sexual abuse
Civil claims for survivors abused as children in Pennsylvania, including delayed-disclosure cases.
Clergy & religious institution abuse
Accountability for abuse within churches, dioceses, and faith organizations across Pennsylvania, including those named in grand jury reports.
School & youth program abuse
Cases involving schools, coaches, camps, and youth-serving organizations that failed to supervise or protect children.
Institutional & facility abuse
Abuse in hospitals, treatment centers, foster care, and residential facilities where staff or oversight failed survivors.
Simple & safe
How it works
Reach out privately
Call or fill out a short, confidential form. Tell us only what you’re comfortable sharing.
We listen & match you
We connect you with an attorney licensed in your state who handles your type of case.
You decide what’s next
Your free consultation is no-obligation. If you move forward, there’s no fee unless you win.
Pennsylvania FAQ
Common questions from Pennsylvania survivors
Can I still file a sexual abuse claim in Pennsylvania?
Possibly yes, even if the abuse happened long ago. Pennsylvania's laws give many survivors a path to file civil claims, and the law continues to evolve. The only way to know if your specific claim is open is to have an attorney review your facts, which costs nothing.
Can I sue an institution in Pennsylvania, not just the abuser?
Often, yes. Pennsylvania law may allow claims against a school, church, diocese, employer, or facility that hired, supervised, or protected the abuser, or that ignored warning signs. Institutional claims are central to many of the cases we handle, and they frequently lead to broader accountability and resources.
What is Pennsylvania's statute of limitations for child sexual abuse?
Pennsylvania law sets deadlines for civil claims brought by survivors abused as children, and those deadlines have been the subject of significant legislative change in recent years. The exact deadline that applies depends on the individual facts of your case, so consulting with an attorney is the best way to understand your options.
How much does a Pennsylvania sexual abuse lawyer cost?
Nothing upfront. These cases are handled on a contingency basis, meaning you pay no fee unless your case results in a recovery. The first consultation is free and confidential, so cost is never a reason to delay reaching out.
Will my case be kept confidential?
Yes. Your first conversation is private, and your information goes only to our Pennsylvania intake team. Many civil claims are resolved confidentially, and your attorney can discuss steps to protect your identity throughout the process. You control how much is shared and when.
Will I have to testify or go to court in Pennsylvania?
Most cases resolve without a trial. If your case does proceed, your attorney prepares and supports you at every step, and protections exist to make testimony less daunting. You are never thrown into a courtroom unprepared, and your comfort guides the pace.
Do I need to have reported the abuse to the police to file a civil claim?
No. A civil claim is independent of any criminal case, and you can pursue one whether or not the abuse was ever reported or prosecuted. A police report can help, but its absence does not prevent you from seeking civil accountability in Pennsylvania.
How long does a Pennsylvania sexual abuse case take?
It varies with the facts, the institutions involved, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Some resolve in months and others take longer. Your attorney will give you a realistic timeline for your situation and keep you informed, so you are never left wondering.
Free & confidential
Talk to a Pennsylvania sexual abuse lawyer
Your message goes privately to our Pennsylvania intake team. There is no cost and no obligation, and you decide what happens next.
- 100% confidential — your privacy is protected
- No fee unless we win your case
- You stay in control of every step
Prefer to talk now? (877) 421-9608
Start your free case review
It only takes a minute. Share what you’re comfortable with.
You don’t have to carry this alone.
Take the first step on your terms. A free, confidential conversation could be the start of getting the justice and support you deserve.