Clergy Abuse
The extent of clergy abuse within the Catholic Church remained a secret until thousands of victims started coming forward in recent years with allegations involving:
- Molestation
- Pornography
- Voyeurism
- Exhibitionism
- Genital penetration
For decades, allegations made to church authorities by victims of clergy abuse were either ignored or the victims were paid off to keep quiet. In fact, church authorities took painstaking efforts to conceal the scandal of clergy abuse taking place behind closed doors – efforts that included moving priests to other parishes and failing to report the accusations to the police.
The Effects of Clergy Abuse
It is unknown exactly how many victims have suffered the ravages of clergy abuse, but thousands have already spoken out against their perpetrators and there are potentially thousands more who are suffering silently. The negative effects of clergy abuse cannot be overstated and often include both psychological and physical issues such as:
- Depression and anxiety
- Guilt and shame
- Fear and mistrust of others
- Sexual dysfunction
- Insomnia or sleep problems
Some victims of clergy abuse turn to alcohol, drugs, or other self-destructive behaviors to cope with their emotional pain. Many of these victims are now adults, but they were once innocent children whose vulnerability was exploited by trusted members of their church. What the victims of clergy abuse have lost can never be regained, but some victims are able to find closure by holding their perpetrators accountable.
Are You a Victim of Clergy Abuse?
It is important to understand that you have legal rights, and you may be able to hold your perpetrator accountable for the damages you have suffered. Even if the clergy member who abused you is no longer living, you may be entitled to compensatory damages from the Catholic Church, which has paid out hundreds of millions in compensation to victims of clergy abuse across the country. Each case is unique, but depending on individual circumstances, victims have obtained money for:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Costs associated with therapy
Contact our Experienced Lawyers
You can learn more about your legal rights by contacting the lawyers at Burke & Eisner today. Our attorneys represent the victims of clergy abuse, and we understand that these cases involve sensitive issues for our clients. If you would like to talk to a clergy abuse attorney in a free, private consultation, contact Burke & Eisner today. We’ll be glad to explain your legal rights and options.
Three ways to Contact Us:
-- Fill out the Contact Us form in the Upper Right part of this page.
-- Use the Contact Us form located on the Instant Answer Page
-- Call us: 1-800-838-0800
See Also:
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