Boy Scouts of America Lawsuits
Lawsuits against the Boy Scouts of America stem from many former Scouts claiming sexual abuse by Scout leaders, camp volunteers, and similar members of the organization. While such legal cases cannot undo the trauma of a trusted adult harming a child, filing a claim enables the abused Boy Scout to seek some measure of justice and compensation.
Victims of Boy Scout sexual abuse, however, often hesitate to come forward. Some do not want to think about that painful part of their past. Others feel embarrassed or fear how those close to them will react. Now grown men, many think too many years have passed to take action.
Some Boy Scouts who suffered sexual abuse find pursuing legal recourse empowering. Their voice gets heard and their turmoil recognized. They feel less isolated knowing others went through similar experiences and hope the attention given to the frequently secretive subject will help others heal, too. CNN reports that court testimony estimates the number of Scouts subjected to sexual abuse by former leaders at more than 12,000 children over the course of 72 years.
If you’re a former Boy Scout who experienced something questionable during your time as a Scout, consider consulting Legal Help Services. Concerned, privacy-respecting professionals can evaluate the potential of your case and address concerns you may have, such as the statute of limitations in your state.
Bankruptcy’s Effect on Boy Scouts of America Lawsuits
Now more than ever, timely action is of the essence for those looking for retribution. In February 2020, in the midst of fielding several hundred sexual abuse lawsuits, the Boy Scouts of America filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The organization deems this action necessary to ensure its ability to compensate all abuse victims.
Former Boy Scouts wishing to file claims now must do so by November 16, 2020. Failure to meet the deadline means being barred from filing suit against the national organization in the future. Proof-of-claim forms must include basic details about the abuse, such as when and where it occurred.
According to USA Today, “In bankruptcy proceedings, survivors who file claims are considered unsecured creditors. The Boy Scouts, as the debtor, will have a fiduciary duty to equitably pay out those claims based on the organization's total assets and the amount of money the nonprofit group owes to other entities, along with a consideration of how payouts will affect the organization's survival. It will do so via the creation of a Victims Compensation Trust.”
How the trust will be funded remains to be seen. In addition to the national organization’s assets, those owned by local councils could be included in the abuse survivor’s fund.
Filling a Claim against the Boy Scouts of America
Expert advice can prove invaluable in situations like these where new developments arise quickly. Legal Help Services can match you with a lawyer in your local area to have your claim reviewed. Every potential victim of Boy Scout sexual abuse deserves to be respectfully heard, and our professionals are ready to listen.
