Unfortunately, cases of clergy sexual abuse have become a major issue in recent years. And, to make matters worse, Churches have been accused of covering up these sex crimes committed on their own. At White Law PLLC, we are here to put an end to this in Kentwood and bring victims the closure they deserve.
Have you been a victim of clergy sexual abuse, or know of someone who has experienced this? Are you scared to seek help and pursue a claim because of what you have gone through? No matter the case, our experienced clergy sexual abuse attorneys in Kentwood at White Law PLLC, are here to help and stick by your side throughout the entire legal process.
If you are looking for more information about clergy sexual abuse cases, or wonder what can be done for victims of sexual abuse, continue reading on.
What Is Considered Clergy Sexual Abuse?
When it comes to clergy sexual abuse, there are various types of abuse a victim can sustain. In general, clergy sexual abuse is defined as inappropriate actions or forced sexual actions from an authoritative religious figure to a churchgoer.
Furthermore, clergy sexual abuse can include any of the following:
- Using pornographic images or videos
- Sexual assault
- The suggestion of sexual activities
- Fondling
- Inappropriate touching
These actions will happen due to one of two situations. First, the religious figure may groom their victims. Grooming means that the liable party will show a considerable liking to their victims and give them plenty of time before ultimately forcing them to do illegal and sexual acts for continued treatment.
Second, those at fault will shame their victims into committing sexual acts. And, shame will go a step further. Once you have been involved in this sexual abuse, victims will be made to feel bad for what they have done and will ensure they are too scared to speak up.
If you have experienced these actions or been in any of these situations while one-on-one with a clergy member, priest, or minister, you may have been a victim of clergy sexual abuse. If this is the case and you are ready to break your silence, you will need to bring forward a legal claim.
From here, you are able to get the justice you deserve in situations like this with the help of a skilled Clergy sexual abuse attorney in Kentwood.
If you or someone you know
endured clergy sex abuse,
contact White Law PLLC today.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Sexual Abuse?
In clergy sexual abuse cases, there generally is one person held liable. Typically, sexual assault will be due to one person’s actions, and that person will be held accountable for it. You are able to sue the individual that acted in an illegal manner.
In almost every situation, the case will stop there. The sole party at fault will be asked to pay a certain amount of money in compensation, and that is that. At White Law PLLC, we refuse to stop here. We take the time to pursue your case further, every time.
Many times throughout cases like this, the church could have also been held liable. However, cases that delve deeper tend to be complicated. The bottom line is that the church can be considered a business. This can be the case because they employ individuals, which include priests, clergy, and ministers.
Because of this, we can ensure that the church is held liable for the crimes committed against victims as well. We are fully ready to hold a larger entity responsible for any trauma that was caused. Therefore, because we are skilled and experienced clergy sexual abuse lawyers in Kentwood, we can establish liability for your case throughout the two parties listed above.
You can contact our clergy sex abuse
lawyers today and rest easier with
experienced attorneys tackling your case.
What Damages Can You Claim From Clergy Sexual Abuse Claims?
When crimes are committed against you, there are losses that you will sustain. And, these losses can include physical monetary losses or intangible losses. We do understand that for most victims, money can’t make up for the trauma and hardships that were caused, but at times, it can help to know justice was served and have those to support you.
In cases that include clergy sexual abuse, there are various types of damages that can be claimed. These include:
- Past and future trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Pain and suffering
- Psychological treatments
- Medical bills
- Hospitalization
- Lost wages
In addition to the losses one can claim that are listed above, the courts may also award punitive damages. Punitive damages are awarded at the court’s discretion and are solely enforced in order to make the liable parties reflect on their crimes and mitigate allowing them to happen in the future.
What Is the Average Settlement For Clergy Sexual Abuse in Kentwood?
Because various types of losses can be claimed in clergy sexual abuse cases, there is no overall settlement amount that is generally awarded. With past numbers and cases, the amount many victims will try and claim ranges anywhere from $300,000 to $400,000.
In order to figure out the settlement amount you can be awarded, all your losses must be calculated. And, other factors will come into play. The victim’s age, the extent of the abuse, and length will all be considered when determining a compensation amount.
Seek Out Our Professional Clergy Sexual Abuse Law Team in Kentwood Today!
When you are a victim of clergy sexual abuse, you may be scared to seek help and support. Nonetheless, we are here to tell you that you don’t need to move forward alone. Our team at White Law PLLC knows the seriousness of these crimes in Michigan and are ready to punish those that carry them out.
We will hold all parties accountable for the actions committed, no matter how difficult or large of a feat it may be. For any questions, you may have or for a free consultation, contact us today.
You have the right to reach out to
a clergy sex abuse attorney and
discuss your right to legal action.
