Sexual Assault and Abuse Claims Against Clergy

Our Lawyers Represent Victims of Sexual Assault and Sexual Abuse by Clergy Members Nationwide

Attorney Lynette S. Byrd
Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault Team Lead
Former DOJ Attorney

This is an active lawsuit and none of the allegations against the defendant(s) have been proven. The contents of this page reflect the allegations in the litigation.

Sexual assault and abuse by clergy members, priests, or church volunteers and employees is a deeply disturbing violation of trust and power. Victims of such heinous acts often endure immense emotional and psychological trauma, making it imperative that they receive compassionate and comprehensive legal support.

Our dedicated team of sexual abuse lawyers at Oberheiden Law Group is committed to holding perpetrators accountable and securing justice for sexual violence survivors in clergy abuse cases. We understand the unique challenges these cases present and strive to provide a safe, respectful environment for clergy abuse victims to share their experiences and seek the compensation they deserve.

What You Should Know If You Are the Victim of Sexual Abuse by Clergy

If you are a victim of sexual abuse by a religious institution’s clergy, it is essential to understand your rights and the steps you can take to seek justice. Oberheiden Law Group’s legal team wants to help you cope and recover from the abuse by a clergy member, priest, or church volunteer or employee. We can help sexually assaulted individuals navigate the legal process with confidence and support through a free consultation.

The Clergy Member May – or May Not – Face Criminal Prosecution

While sexual assault and sexual abuse are criminal offenses, prosecutors do not always file charges against church leaders. There are many reasons a prosecutor may not pursue your sexual misconduct case. However, that doesn’t have to stop you from filing a civil claim against them.

Criminal courts and civil courts have different standards by which sexual misconduct must be proven. In many cases, it is easier to prove you suffered because of church sexual abuse in a civil court. Even if the clergy member who perform sexual acts does not face criminal charges, you still have legal rights in clergy sexual abuse cases.

The Clergy Member Does Not Have to Be Found Guilty

As was previously mentioned, there are different standards for getting a conviction in a criminal trial vs. proving you deserve compensation in a civil case. To be found guilty of a crime, there is a high burden of proof, which includes proof “beyond a reasonable doubt” that the clergy member committed unwanted sexual touching, forcing a victim to perform sexual acts, or domestic violence.

When in civil court, you must prove that it is “more likely than not” that your sexual assault or abuse occurred. This lowered standard of proof allows you to pursue a civil claim for compensation even if the clergy member was not found to be guilty in a criminal court for clergy sexual abuse claims.

Victims of Clergy Sexual Abuse Are Entitled to Compensation

Victims of clergy sexual assault and abuse can pursue compensation for various damages through civil claims. This includes covering treatment costs and other out-of-pocket medical bills, therapy costs, compensating for loss of income and benefits, and addressing the significant pain, suffering, and emotional trauma endured. Additionally, victims may seek financial compensation for the loss of consortium and companionship, as well as for the loss of enjoyment of life. By filing a civil lawsuit, victims of childhood sexual abuse can hold the perpetrators accountable and obtain the financial resources necessary for their recovery and well-being.

Filing a Lawsuit Can Protect Yourself and Others

Aside from calling the National Sexual Assault Hotline, filing a lawsuit against a clergy member or priest who sexually abused you is an important step in protecting yourself and others. By holding the perpetrator accountable, you not only seek justice for your suffering but also help prevent future abuse.

In many clergy abuse cases, legal action can raise awareness, encourage other victims to come forward, and prompt institutions to implement stricter safeguarding measures. This collective effort can create a safer environment for everyone and ensure that those who abuse their position of trust face the consequences of their actions in cases of child sexual abuse and clergy abuse.

You Don’t Have to Pay Upfront for Legal Services

Oberheiden Law Group represents sexual assault and abuse victims on a contingency-fee basis. This means that clients do not have to pay any legal fees upfront. Instead, our law firm only gets paid if we win the case or obtain a settlement for our clients in a clergy sexual abuse attorney.

This arrangement ensures that victims have access to legal representation for their sexual abuse claims without the added financial burden during an already stressful time. By operating on a contingency-fee basis, Oberheiden Law Group demonstrates our commitment to seeking justice for clients and holding perpetrators accountable, regardless of the victim’s financial situation.

Types of Clergy Sexual Assault and Abuse Cases We Handle

We handle all types of clergy, priest, and church employee sexual exploitation and sexual abuse cases on behalf of victims and their families nationwide. This includes, but is not limited to, cases involving:

Sexual comments or advances made by clergy
Inappropriate touching
Forced or coerced sexual contact or sexual activity of any kind
Attempted rape and rape by clergy
Grooming and continuous inappropriate interactions
Taking photos or videos without consent

This is just a few examples of the types of sexual abuse and sexual assault cases against clergy members that we handle nationwide. If you or your child has been a sexual abuse victim, you should contact Oberheiden Law Group as soon as possible to learn your options forward.

Dr. Nick Oberheiden

Founder

Attorney-at-Law

Lynette S. Byrd

Former DOJ Trial Attorney

Partner

Brian J. Kuester

Former U.S. Attorney

Hon. Kevin McCarthy

55th Speaker, U.S. House of Representatives (ret.)

Government Consultant

Mike Pompeo

Of Counsel

Former U.S. Secretary of State

John W. Sellers

Former Senior DOJ Trial Attorney

Linda Julin McNamara

Federal Appeals Attorney

Nicholas B. Johnson

Former Prosecutor

Roger Bach

Former Special Agent (DOJ)

Chris J. Quick

Former Special Agent (FBI & IRS-CI)

Michael S. Koslow

Former Supervisory Special Agent (DOD-OIG)

Ray Yuen

Former Supervisory Special Agent (FBI)

FAQs: Filing a Claim Against a Clergy Member for Sexual Abuse or Assault

Who Can You Sue in a Church Sex Abuse Civil Case?

There are multiple parties you may be able to sue in a sex abuse case involving the church or church members. Some of them include the individual perpetrator (the clergy member, priest, or church volunteer or employee) and the church institution or organization (e.g., the Catholic Church or the Archdiocese).

Do I Have a Sexual Abuse Case Against the Catholic Church?

If you were sexually abused as a minor or adult within the Catholic Church, then you may be able to file a lawsuit and get compensation for your damages. In most cases, the abuser must have been a priest, clergy member, or some other Church volunteer or employee. Your abuse may have occurred at any time in the past.

You may even have a claim if your abuser is no longer alive, or they were never charged or convicted of a crime. Determining if you have grounds to pursue a claim can be challenging, which is why our team at Oberheiden Law Group is ready to help.

Is There a Deadline for Filing a Sexual Abuse Case Against Clergy Members?

There are typically legal deadlines known as a “statute of limitations” for filing civil sexual abuse lawsuits. Each state sets these independently, so they can vary. However, most deadlines for filing a sexual assault case against your abuser allow the victim to reach adulthood plus a certain number of additional years after that point.

What Should I Do If I, or a Loved One, Have Been Sexually Abused by a Clergy Member?

If you or your child was sexually abused by a clergy member, you should immediately report the incident to the police. It is not the victim’s fault this is happening. The victim should seek support and also get medical treatment, including a physical exam and psychological treatment from medical professionals. Take photographs and videos of any evidence that proves abuse occurred. Then, call Oberheiden Law Group to hold the clergy member accountable for their actions.

How Can I Prove Church Sexual Abuse?

It’s important to gather as much forensic evidence as possible to prove sexual abuse happened. That’s why our experienced clergy sexual assault lawyers consult with expert investigators who leave no stone unturned. We will gather relevant documentation and records demonstrating the abuse’s impact on the victim, and we will get witness testimonies to strengthen your case. Photographs, videos, and diary entries about your experiences can also be helpful. Oberheiden Law Group has former FBI agents on our team to help us conduct a thorough investigation in your case.

Get Help from a Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawyer at Oberheiden Law Group

Clergy sexual abuse has profound and lasting impacts on its victims. No one should suffer in silence, and every survivor deserves justice and support. If you or a loved one has been affected by these heinous acts or even unwanted sexual advances, it is important to take action and seek the justice you deserve.

At Oberheiden Law Group, our dedicated clergy sexual abuse lawyers are committed to standing by your side and helping you navigate this difficult journey. With our resources, we will work tirelessly to uncover the truth, gather the necessary evidence, and build a compelling case on your behalf.

Don’t wait any longer to hold the abusers accountable and start your path to healing. Contact Oberheiden Law Group today. Contact our clergy sex abuse attorneys for a confidential consultation and let us fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve.

Further Information About Our Lawyers for Victims of Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault Lawsuit Services

Disclaimer:
The content on this site is informational only and describes mere allegations. The content does not suggest evidence, proof, or guaranteed liability. The merits of each case depend on specific facts. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes in future cases. For more details, please see our FTC and general disclaimers. Oberheiden Law is the law firm in charge.