Florida Eliminates Time Limit on Sex Abuse Claims

May 13, 2010

Florida’s governor has signed a bill eliminating all time limits for filing criminal or civil action alleging sexual abuse of children.

Gov. Charlie Crist signed the bill (HB 525) on Tuesday. It lifts statutes of limitations for pursuing criminal or civil sexual abuse cases in which victims are younger than 16 at the time of the abuse.

The civil portion was opposed by the Florida Catholic Conference, which contends it would create great uncertainty for any organization. The Roman Catholic Church has faced numerous lawsuits alleging sexual abuse by priests.

Florida law previously had various time limits in place for pursuing criminal and civil actions, depending on the age of the child.

Topics Florida Claims

Was this article valuable?

Here are more articles you may enjoy.

Latest Comments

  • May 14, 2010 at 11:21 am
    Arnold says:
    Most of the time the civil trial is about the money. I think it should be opposed or there should be a time limit for the civil, or no time limit if they win the criminal tri... read more
  • May 13, 2010 at 3:25 am
    Franklin says:
    They (the Catholic Church) are more concerned with CYA than they are with the welfare of children. That is sad.
  • May 13, 2010 at 12:22 pm
    Jen says:
    Seriously, the Catholic church went on record opposing a law to protect children from sexual abuse..... *sigh

Add a CommentSee All Comments (3)Add a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*

More News
More News Features