What Every Survivor Needs to Know About Michigan Foster Care Abuse

Michigan’s foster care system is supposed to provide safety and stability for children. But for decades, it has faced serious concerns, including multiple cases where foster children were sexually abused by the very people entrusted to protect them. As of 2023, nearly 10,000 children were in foster care across Michigan. The state report that most children are not mistreated, but the percentage who do report abuse is at its highest since at least 2019. In fact, a 2008 report found that Michigan’s rate of maltreatment in foster care was two and a half times higher than the national standard. That same year, a class action lawsuit forced the state into a settlement agreement to reform its foster care system. Over the years, Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services has promised change from better monitoring of foster homes to more staff, to increased oversight. But despite these efforts, abuse still happens.

If you or a loved one suffered sexual abuse in Michigan foster care, you may have legal options. Survivors may file a civil lawsuit against the state, private foster agencies, or institutions that failed to protect them. Working with trauma-informed attorneys is critical. They not only know how to build strong cases against institutions, but they also understand the sensitivity required in handling these deeply personal matters. Under Michigan law, child sexual abuse survivors generally have until the age of 28 to file a civil lawsuit or 3 years from the date they realize the harm the abuse caused. Even if your abuser was never charged, is deceased, or the abuse happened years ago, you may still have a case.

In civil court, survivors may be able to seek compensation for medical costs, therapy bills, emotional distress, and other damages. Evidence may include medical records, witness testimony, or written communications. An attorney experienced in foster abuse cases can guide you through this process.

At Helping Survivors, we connect survivors and families with experienced attorneys who understand these cases. Most importantly, our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay anything upfront. They only get paid if they win your case. If you or someone you know was harmed in the Michigan foster care system, reach out to Helping Survivors today to learn about your legal rights and options.