Judge might shorten window for clergy abuse claims, Crux

A federal bankruptcy judge has indicated he will shorten the window for clergy sex abuse victims to file claims against the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis.

US Bankruptcy Judge Robert Kressel signaled Thursday that he will agree with the archdiocese and set an Aug. 3 date for filing claims. However, Kressel said he would consider giving victims more time if needed.

Minnesota Public Radio News reported that August is much earlier than the filing deadline allowed under a Minnesota law that gives abuse victims until May 2016 to file lawsuits over abuse that happened years ago. The archdiocese said the earlier date could mean a quicker resolution for claims and reduced bankruptcy costs, leaving more assets available for victims.

Victims’ attorney Jeff Anderson argued the 2016 deadline should hold.