On February 17, 2020, the Boy Scouts of America filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. In response to increasing litigation stemming from years of failing to protect boys from being abused by its leaders, the Boy Scouts of America filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, seeking relief from the mounting claims.

Chapter 11 bankruptcy is a specific bankruptcy process designed to facilitate the restructuring of a business to allow it to continue its operations while setting forth a plan to repay its creditors. In other words, Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection allows the Boy Scouts of America to keep its doors open while actively working out a plan to compensate survivors of abuse, and other debts it may have.

What does the Boy Scouts of America Bankruptcy Mean for Survivors of Scout Abuse?

Bankruptcy can provide an avenue for survivors to receive compensation and justice outside of traditional litigation. It is often easier for survivors to seek compensation and justice in a bankruptcy context than to pursue individual claims against those that harbored and protected their abusers. However, survivors must file a claim in the bankruptcy to be eligible and important deadlines for filing a claim against the Boy Scouts of America now apply.

What important deadlines apply for filing a claim?

The bankruptcy court set a claims bar date for November 16, 2020. A claims bar date is the last date by which the bankruptcy court will accept new claims. In other words, it is the deadline by which all survivors of child sexual abuse by a BSA volunteer, leader, employee, or other affiliated member must file their claim.

Do I Qualify To File A Claim?

Each potential case is different with different facts. Your situation must be evaluated carefully before any legal advice can be given. Please contact us for more information concerning your claim. Our consultations are free and always confidential.

How can I file a claim?

Claims in the Boy Scout of America Chapter 11 bankruptcy may be filed by filing a claim form with the court detailing certain information needed to evaluate the claim. If you would like assistance with filing a claim, we can help represent you throughout the process. For more information, please contact us today.

How long will it take to get a recovery?

A bankruptcy case can take some time, and any resolution will need to be approved by the bankruptcy court. At this time, we cannot provide an estimate of how long the Boy Scout of America Chapter 11 bankruptcy will take.

Is My Call Confidential?

Yes. We realize it is difficult to reach out for help. Some of our clients have reached out to us before they have shared their history of abuse with close friends or family members. We realize these are difficult matters to discuss, and we are here to help. We are pleased to offer a free and confidential consultation to answer your questions and help you understand your rights.