BOY SCOUTS Litigation

For over a century, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) has been one of the most recognized youth organizations in the United States. However, behind the trusted image, thousands of former Scouts have come forward to reveal a deeply troubling pattern of sexual abuse, spanning decades and involving adult volunteers, scoutmasters, and leaders entrusted with the care and guidance of children. 

At Anderson Alexander, we represent survivors seeking justice against the Boy Scouts of America and affiliated organizations. These lawsuits are about more than financial recovery. They are about accountability, acknowledgment, and the long-overdue recognition of institutional failure to protect vulnerable children. 

What Is the Boy Scouts Litigation? 

The Boy Scouts Litigation refers to a series of legal claims filed by survivors of sexual abuse that occurred while participating in Boy Scouts programs. These cases involve abuse by adult volunteers and leaders, many of whom were allegedly known to the organization, yet allowed to continue in positions of authority. 

In response to the growing number of claims, the Boy Scouts of America filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2020. As part of the bankruptcy proceedings, the BSA proposed a reorganization plan to establish a Victims Compensation Trust Fund, through which eligible survivors can submit claims for financial compensation. 

The litigation represents one of the most significant sexual abuse cases in U.S. history, with more than 82,000 claims filed against the BSA to date. 

Who Was Affected? 

Survivors span generations, with abuse incidents reported as far back as the 1940s. Most victims were boys between the ages of 7 and 18 at the time of the abuse, often groomed and assaulted by individuals they trusted and admired. 

Key facts: 

• Many survivors were abused during overnight camping trips, in troop meetings, or during one-on-one mentorships. 
• In many cases, the BSA maintained "ineligible volunteer" files (internal records of suspected abusers) but failed to report them to law enforcement or prevent further contact with children. 
• Survivors often remained silent for decades, burdened by shame, fear, or trauma. 

With the emergence of litigation, many survivors are finding their voices and demanding accountability from the institution that failed to protect them. 

Who Can File a Claim? 

You may be eligible to file a claim if: 

• You were sexually abused by a Scout leader, volunteer, or other adult associated with the Boy Scouts of America. 
• The abuse occurred at any time, even decades ago. 
• You are filing on behalf of a deceased loved one who was a victim. 
• You were part of a chartered troop sponsored by a religious institution, school, or civic organization that may also share liability. 

Survivors do not need to have reported the abuse at the time it occurred to be eligible to file a claim. In fact, many survivors come forward years later, often after understanding the long-term psychological impact of the abuse. 

Compensation Available 

While no amount of money can undo the trauma, compensation through the Boy Scouts Victims Compensation Trust and related litigation can help survivors access the resources and care they need. 

Compensation may include: 

• Monetary awards based on the nature and severity of the abuse 
• Therapy or mental health treatment costs 
• Medical expenses 
• Loss of income or earning capacity 
• Pain and suffering 

The value of each claim is determined through a variety of factors, including age at the time of abuse, relationship to the abuser, frequency and severity of the abuse, and the impact on the survivor’s life. 

Why Legal Action Matters 

Bringing a claim against the Boy Scouts of America isn’t just about compensation, but it’s about validation, healing, and justice. Survivors have carried these stories alone for far too long. Legal action gives them a path to: 

• Hold the organization accountable 
• Ensure public acknowledgment of wrongdoing 
• Help prevent future institutional abuse 
• Send a message that survivors deserve to be heard and believed 

Important Deadlines and Legal Updates 

The BSA’s bankruptcy plan and associated trust have strict filing deadlines. If you are considering filing a claim, it is essential to act promptly to protect your rights. 

Additionally, certain states have enacted “lookback windows” or extended statutes of limitations for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. This means you may still be eligible to file a claim even if the abuse occurred many years ago. 

Take the Next Step 

If you or someone you care about was abused while involved in the Boy Scouts, now is the time to take action. Thousands have already come forward, and you are not alone. 



At Anderson Alexander, we handle sensitive cases with the discretion, respect, and compassion they deserve. Our team has the experience and legal expertise to guide survivors through this complex and emotionally charged process. Get started by requesting a consultation today.