Boy Scout
Sexual Abuse

Background

Thousands of Scouts were sexually abused by employees and volunteers of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). Many survivors bravely came forward, filing cases against the BSA to hold it accountable. As a result, the BSA filed for bankruptcy on February 18, 2020, affecting over 82,000 survivors who had filed abuse claims. Krause & Kinsman proudly represents nearly 7,000 Scouts, guiding them through the litigation to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve.

The Bankruptcy Case

The Bankruptcy Court required the BSA to propose a plan to address the 82,000 claims. After two years of litigation, a plan was created and supported by 70% of Krause & Kinsman’s clients. The confirmation trial, spanning almost four weeks with over 1,000 exhibits, concluded with the plan’s approval by Judge Silverstein on September 8, 2022. The plan establishes a $2.5 billion trust to pay abuse claims, provides a procedure to evaluate each claim, and implements a Youth Protection Program to prevent future abuse.

Current Status

While the plan’s approval was a major milestone, it has been appealed, with the appeals process expected to take time. The trust cannot become active until the District Court affirms the Bankruptcy Court’s decision. Krause & Kinsman remains committed to fighting for its clients throughout this process, hopeful that resolution will occur within 6-18 months.

Update

On October 14, 2025, a small group of sexual abuse survivors filed a petition with the Supreme Court. They are asking the Court to review the decision of the Third Circuit Court of Appeals in connection with their appeal of the Bankruptcy plan. The Supreme Court has the ability to decide whether it will hear the appeal, and it will likely not make a decision on whether it will grant or deny the petition until sometime in the first quarter of 2026. The Supreme Court is not required to make that decision by a set deadline.

The $1.5 billion currently held in escrow will remain there until the appeals of the bankruptcy plan are complete. As a result, the Settlement Trustee cannot yet issue a second payment to claimants. The Settlement Trustee will continue to review and make determinations on claims.

We know this development represents a further delay in you receiving the justice you deserve. We will continue to offer our support and guidance to you, so please reach out to us if we can be of assistance. We will continue to monitor the appeals of the bankruptcy plan, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available.