Clergy and sexual abuse occur when trusted individuals within religious or institutional settings exploit their positions of power to commit acts of abuse. These heinous acts are often hidden or dismissed to protect the reputation of the institution at the expense of survivors. Many survivors face significant challenges in coming forward due to fear, shame, or the institution’s efforts to silence them.

We recognize that these abuses often involve systemic failures where organizations fail to protect the vulnerable. Our goal is to provide survivors with the legal support they need to seek justice, hold perpetrators accountable, and bring about institutional change.

Sexual abuse has been reported across various institutions, including:

Southern Baptist Convention (SBC)
The SBC is the largest Protestant denomination in the U.S., with over 15 million members. Despite emphasizing local church autonomy, investigations have revealed decades of abuse cover-ups, defamation, and efforts to mitigate legal liability instead of protecting vulnerable members.

Catholic Church
According to credible sources, sexual predators within the Catholic Church hold roles ranging from priests and bishops to volunteers and staff members. The Church has faced widespread allegations of abuse and systemic cover-ups that prioritize institutional reputation over survivor well-being.

Jehovah’s Witnesses
With over 8 million followers worldwide, the Jehovah’s Witnesses and their parent organization, the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, have been accused of collecting and withholding information about alleged abusers, leaving survivors without justice or protection.

Mormon Church
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) has faced claims from survivors who allege that reports of sexual abuse were ignored, dismissed, or handled internally, often without notifying law enforcement. Institutional efforts have often focused on preserving the Church’s reputation rather than addressing survivor needs.

If you’re considering legal action, understanding the difference between civil and criminal lawsuits is crucial:

• Criminal Lawsuits: Initiated by government prosecutors, these aim to punish the abuser through fines, imprisonment, or probation. However, criminal cases rarely result in monetary compensation for survivors.
• Civil Lawsuits: Initiated by the survivor or their legal representative, these focus on securing financial compensation for damages such as medical expenses, counseling costs, and emotional distress. Civil cases also allow survivors to hold institutions accountable for enabling abuse.

While criminal charges may provide justice in the form of punishment, civil lawsuits offer survivors a way to secure financial compensation that can help alleviate the burdens caused by their abuse. Survivors often face significant emotional and physical trauma, and monetary damages can assist with the costs of counseling, medical care, and other recovery needs.

McGartland Law Firm is here to guide you through this challenging process. Our experienced team is dedicated to:

• Advocating for your rights and ensuring your voice is heard.
• Investigating abuse claims thoroughly and holding institutions accountable.
• Helping you navigate legal options, whether you choose to pursue a civil or criminal case.

We understand the courage it takes to come forward, and we are here to provide compassionate and confidential support every step of the way.

If you or someone you know is a survivor of clergy or sexual abuse, contact McGartland Law Firm today. Call us at (866) 832-9300 for a free and confidential consultation. Together, we can fight for justice and work toward healing.