At Blanford Law, we stand with survivors of childhood abuse. If you or someone you love has experienced ongoing abuse, we can help you seek justice. In a landmark decision, the Washington Supreme Court expanded childhood abuse protections under RCW 4.16.340, allowing survivors to pursue legal claims even when the abuse continued into adulthood.
M.R. v. State of Washington: A Case That Strengthened Childhood Abuse Protections
This critical case involved M.R., a survivor who alleged that a Yakima Valley Community College basketball coach began sexually abusing her at age 17. The abuse continued while she attended the college. M.R. filed claims against the coach and the State of Washington, arguing that the abuse, which began in childhood, caused long-term harm.
While the trial court allowed the case under RCW 4.16.340, the Court of Appeals reversed this decision, ruling that the statute only applied to abuse before the age of 18.
📖 Read the full text of RCW 4.16.340 here.
Supreme Court Affirms Broader Childhood Abuse Protections
The Washington Supreme Court reversed the lower court’s ruling. Justice Whitener wrote that RCW 4.16.340 covers continuous abuse beginning in childhood and extending into adulthood.
“RCW 4.16.340 includes claims for continuing sexual abuse that extend into the victim’s adulthood, which are based on intentional acts of childhood sexual abuse.”
This decision underscores the importance of childhood abuse protections for survivors who may not immediately recognize or report their trauma.
Why This Decision Matters for Childhood Abuse Survivors
- Many survivors repress traumatic memories for years.
- The psychological impact of childhood abuse often emerges later in life.
- Institutional negligence may take time to uncover.
This decision ensures that survivors have a longer window to pursue justice, holding perpetrators and institutions accountable.
Explore more about related legal options in our guide on filing personal injury claims in Washington State.
Contact Blanford Law for Help with Childhood Abuse Claims
If you or someone you care about has been affected by childhood abuse, contact Blanford Law today. Our compassionate team can help you navigate your legal rights and fight for justice under the expanded childhood abuse protections.
📞 Phone: 253-720-9304
📧 Email: ken@blanfordlaw.com
🌐 Website: www.blanfordlaw.com
Your voice matters. Justice is possible.
