Clergy Sexual Abuse

Today, we’re discussing an issue that has impacted individuals around the world: clergy sexual abuse.

This form of abuse occurs when leaders of religious organizations and institutions use their position of authority and trust to sexually abuse individuals, often minors.
Over the last few years, high-profile cases across all religions have shed light on this pervasive issue.

The Boston Globe’s investigation into the Catholic Church unveiled systemic abuse and cover-ups dating back decades. Similar investigations have revealed systematic abuse within the Mormon Church, the Jehovah’s Witnesses, Southern Baptists, and nearly every major religion around the world.

Those impacted by sexual abuse by clergy members have bravely come forward to speak to the media, report to law enforcement, and file civil lawsuits against these organizations.
The lawsuits have resulted in financial settlements and payouts to these survivors, including the Archdiocese of Los Angeles agreeing to a $660 million settlement with victims in 2007, one of the largest of its kind. Over the last few years, it is believed that at least one billion dollars have been paid to clergy sexual abuse victims.

While these cases can give hope to survivors, the compensation will never heal the harm they experienced, mostly as young children within these organizations. These cases have led to significant financial and moral reckonings within religious communities. Survivors have courageously come forward, leading to major legal and institutional reforms to continue helping those impacted and hopefully preventing future harm from occurring.

If you or someone you know experienced sexual abuse by a religious leader, you have rights and options. You can report to law enforcement to begin a criminal investigation, you can speak to the media, and you may be able to file a civil lawsuit to pursue a public record and monetary compensation for the harm you endured.

Thousands of survivors of all religious backgrounds have already filed civil lawsuits against these organizations. We understand how difficult it can be to stand up to an organization and the fears you may face regarding this – but we’re here to help all survivors of clergy abuse understand their rights, their options, and answer their questions so they can take the next best step forward.

If you reach out to us, we can connect you to an experienced clergy sexual abuse attorney who can provide a free consultation to help you understand your legal rights and options and if you choose to file a civil lawsuit, they will take your case on contingency meaning there are no upfront costs to pursuing a claim.

Please reach out to us today if you have any questions or want to learn more about your rights and options.