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Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawsuit | Get the Right Lawyer

Sexual abuse inflicted by a member of the clergy or priesthood is an unspeakable act. A religious figure whose purpose is to provide spiritual and moral guidance breaks every possible barrier of decency when he or she crosses over into the realm of sexual abuse. While some victims of clergy abuse have come forward, most have remained silent due to potential consequences.
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Legal Options for Survivors of Clergy Abuse

Clergy Abuse Update 5/25/12: This week, thousands of documents concerning nine Roman Catholic priests who settled a landmark clergy abuse lawsuit in 2006 were made public. The newly-released files provide a detailed look into the accusations, as well as reveal instances when members of the clergy were allowed to interact with children despite their superiors being aware of previous indiscretions.

Read more: Roman Catholic Abuse Documents Released to Public

Catholic Sexual Abuse Update 4/12/12: The number of reports of sexual abuse committed by Catholic priests skyrocketed by more than 15% last year, according to a recent audit released by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. In 2011, there were nearly 500 credible reports filed against Roman Catholic priests or deacons nationwide.

Read more: Catholic Sexual Abuse Claims Increased by Double Digits

Sexual abuse inflicted by a member of the clergy or priesthood is an unspeakable act. A religious figure whose purpose is to provide spiritual and moral guidance breaks every possible barrier of decency when he or she crosses over into the realm of sexual abuse. While some victims of clergy abuse have come forward, most have remained silent due to potential consequences.

Many clergy sexual abuse victims feel shame and are reluctant to tell anyone what happened to them. In many cases, the abuse occurred years ago. However, silence and the passage of time only allow the pattern of abuse to continue. The only way to stop sexual predators from abusing more children is for past victims to come forward now.

Act Out Against Sexual Abuse

It takes a lot of courage to come forward after being victimized, especially if your abuse was at the hands of a powerful organization like the Catholic Church, Methodists, Pentecostals, Church of Latter Day Saints, Mormons, Evangelicals, or Baptists.

It is your legal right to be compensated for the time you have suffered from enduring clergy abuse. Whether it was a short time ago or decades ago, these things are never acceptable for anyone to have to survive.

The legal system gives you an opportunity to confront the perpetrator and finally exert power over the person who abused you when you were young and powerless. You may want to sue for the emotional or financial damages caused by the abuse, such as lost wages and money spent on therapy. Many victims want to protect other children from the same abuser. These are just a few of the many reasons to seek professional help in achieving the closure and justice you deserve.

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FAQs

How can a clergy sexual abuse lawyer help survivors?

A clergy sexual abuse lawyer can help survivors by providing legal representation, filing lawsuits for compensation, guiding them through the legal process, and ensuring their rights are protected.

Can survivors of clergy sexual abuse file a lawsuit?

Yes, survivors can file a lawsuit against the individual abuser and the religious institution for damages, including compensation for physical, emotional, and psychological harm.

What evidence is needed to support a clergy sexual abuse claim?

Evidence may include personal testimonies, medical records, documentation of psychological impact, and any communication or records from the religious institution acknowledging the abuse.

Is there a statute of limitations for filing clergy sexual abuse claims?

The statute of limitations varies by state and the specifics of the case. Some states have extended or eliminated the statute of limitations for sexual abuse cases, allowing survivors more time to file claims.

See all sexual abuse lawsuits from S&C, LLP.

Do I have a Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawsuit?

The Sexual Abuse Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in clergy sexual abuse lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.

Free Clergy Sexual Abuse Case Evaluation: If you have been sexually abused by a priest, minister, rabbi, counselor or anyone who has abused their power, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit and we can help.

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