Child Sexual Abuse

We know it is difficult to recall traumatic memories, let alone discuss them. But even if the assault happened many years ago, you may be able to file a lawsuit for compensation now, as Maryland’s Child Victims Act eliminated the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse, effective October 1, 2023. Our attorneys have experience with difficult sexual assault cases and have won million-dollar and multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements in favor of survivors. We are currently representing scores of survivors with claims against the Archdiocese of Baltimore (including clients who signed releases with the Archdiocese in the past), the Archdiocese of Washington, the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services, numerous schools, and other institutions. Among our clients is the chair of the Creditors’ Committee in the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Baltimore’s bankruptcy case. We maintain absolute confidentiality and will only move forward if and when you are ready to do so.

We provide representation in civil lawsuits, which are distinct from criminal proceedings. In a civil suit, you may seek monetary compensation for emotional trauma, pain and suffering, lost income, medical and counseling expenses, and more. A civil suit may succeed even if the offender is not convicted under criminal law. You may also seek compensation against those that enabled the abuse or helped cover it up.

Sexual abuse of children by adults who are entrusted with their care causes lifelong harm. Most survivors are not psychologically able to come forward until after they are 50 years old or older. Many are hesitant, unsure of whether they want to confront their abuser, the institution that allowed the abuse to occur, or both. The attorneys at Brown, Goldstein & Levy recognize the devastating effects sexual crimes have on survivors and their families. We have the experience to advise and support you through the process. Filing a lawsuit may not be the right decision for you, but if it is, we can help you achieve the catharsis of standing up to your abuser and any institution that enabled him.

Brown, Goldstein & Levy has obtained justice for survivors of child sexual assault and abuse in numerous civil cases throughout the state of Maryland. We have successfully brought cases against individual perpetrators and against churches, schools, and other organizations that enabled the abuse. Many institutions deny responsibility. When this happens, our attorneys have the skills and experience to take these challenging cases to a court trial to force accountability when necessary. Our attorneys have won multiple jury verdicts in favor of survivors, including a $15 million verdict for the survivor of abuse by a pedophile who targeted boys at his church. Another trial resulted in a $1 million jury verdict in a case recognized by the National Law Journal as one of the nation’s “Top Wins of 2000.” Because defendants know we are willing and able to take these cases to trial, they are often paid top dollar for settlements. We obtained a $1 million settlement for a babysitter who was sexually abused by her employer without her even having to file suit, and have obtained large, confidential settlements against Baltimore churches for abuse by clergy and teachers. Our team of attorneys is supported by a licensed social worker, who advises our legal team and works directly with our clients to assist them with the continued effects of their trauma.

The Baltimore Sun quoted Brown, Goldstein & Levy attorney Andy Freeman for his expertise regarding the Child Victims Act. Read the articles here and here.

Regardless of when the assault happened, you may still have a right to sue. From our first meeting until your case is closed, we will maintain absolute confidentiality and will only move forward when you are comfortable and ready. Having obtained justice for many survivors throughout Maryland, our attorneys are ready to support you. Contact us for a free consultation.