Clergy sexual abuse can leave victims with profound emotional scars, financial hardship, and physical pain that last a lifetime. You may face overwhelming feelings of shame, guilt, and betrayal, which could prevent you from coming forward. If you or someone you love has suffered clergy sexual abuse, know that you are not alone, and you can take action against your abuser.
At White Law PLLC, your Portage clergy abuse lawyer understands the traumatic impact the abuse has had and may continue to have on your life. With over $1.2 billion recovered for our clients, we have the experience and resources to hold abusers and institutions accountable. Contact a Portage sexual abuse lawyer from White Law PLLC today for a free consultation and to learn how we can help you seek the justice you deserve.
What Constitutes Clergy Abuse Under the Law
Clergy abuse refers to sexual misconduct perpetrated by members of religious institutions against minors or other vulnerable individuals. These actions can range from inappropriate behavior to serious sex crimes. Your Portage personal injury lawyer can help you recognize abuse, as it can take many forms, such as:
- Abuse of power to engage in sexual relationships
- Coercing individuals into sexual acts through manipulation or threats
- Failing to report sexual misconduct to authorities
- Grooming minors for exploitation
- Inappropriate touching or fondling
- Sexual assault or rape
Recognizing clergy abuse is often difficult, as abusers frequently use their position of trust to silence victims. You should know that taking action against your abuser is both possible and empowering. If you have experienced clergy abuse, reaching out to an experienced Portage clergy abuse lawyer could be your first step in reclaiming your voice and holding those responsible accountable.
If you or someone you know
endured clergy sex abuse,
contact White Law PLLC today.
What to Expect from Your Clergy Abuse Lawsuit
Challenging your clergy abuser can be an emotional and daunting experience, as you may worry about what people might think, continue to relive the trauma, and face pushback from powerful institutions.
However, with the right legal advocate, you can move through the claims process with confidence and take back control of your life. Here is a general overview of what to expect from the clergy sexual abuse claims process:
- Initial consultation – We discuss the details of your case and explore your legal options with you.
- Case investigation – We will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult expert witnesses to build the strongest case possible based on your individual circumstances.
- Settlement negotiations – We may be able to resolve your case through negotiations with the at-fault parties’ insurers and avoid going to trial.
- Trial representation – If a settlement cannot be reached with the insurance company, we are prepared to advocate for your rights in court.
In many cases, your abuser may also face criminal charges, which can influence the outcome of a civil lawsuit. The criminal prosecution of the abuser can strengthen your case, as it provides additional evidence of wrongdoing but is not necessary for your civil claim. Since the burden of proof for civil cases is based on a preponderance of the evidence as described under the Michigan Rules of Evidence, this compelling evidence can only help to support your case.
You can contact our clergy sex abuse
lawyers today and rest easier with
experienced attorneys tackling your case.
The Prevalence of Clergy Abuse in the Portage Area
Clergy sexual abuse has been a significant concern in the Portage area, particularly within the Diocese of Kalamazoo. In May 2024, the Michigan Attorney General’s Office released a comprehensive report detailing allegations of abuse within the diocese. The investigation identified 19 priests accused of sexual misconduct since the diocese’s establishment in 1971, with most incidents occurring before 2002.
The report highlights the fact that many survivors continue to face challenges in coming forward, often due to their feelings of isolation and fear that no one will believe them. Delayed reporting shows that the true scope of abuse in the Diocese of Kalamazoo and surrounding areas may be greatly underestimated by government officials. For this reason, Attorney General Dana Nessel reported these findings to demonstrate the state’s support of survivors and dedication to bringing perpetrators to justice.
In response to these allegations, advocacy groups, such as the Michigan Clergy Abuse Coalition, have stepped up to provide additional support for victims of sexual abuse. Your Portage clergy abuse attorney from White Law PLLC is committed to helping you get through some of the most challenging times in your life. When we take action against your abuser and anyone else who may be responsible for the trauma you endured, we can not only expose the church’s wrongdoing but potentially prevent future instances of clergy abuse in our community.
Clergy Abuse Survivors in Portage Can Demand Justice
As a survivor of clergy sexual abuse, you have the legal right to pursue justice and hold your abuser accountable. Filing a lawsuit could give you an opportunity to seek financial compensation for the harm you have endured so you can pick up the pieces of your life. These damages should be all-encompassing and provide reimbursement for every single way you have been affected by the trauma of your experience.
Economic Damages
Economic damages provide compensation for the financial losses you have suffered. This could include medical expenses for physical injuries or mental health treatment. You may also be entitled to compensation for lost wages due to time away from work, as well as any other out-of-pocket costs related to the abuse.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages address the emotional and psychological toll of the abuse. Survivors may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Though intangible, non-economic damages can be profoundly impactful and should be taken into consideration accordingly.
Punitive Damages
In cases involving egregious misconduct, survivors may be awarded punitive damages under MCL Section 445.911. These damages are designed to punish the abuser and any enabling institutions for their actions. While punitive damages could dramatically increase your settlement, you should never count on punitive relief unless we suggest otherwise.
Consult a Compassionate and Reputable Clergy Abuse Lawyer in Portage, MI, for Help Today
The trauma of clergy sexual abuse can feel insurmountable, but with the right support, healing is possible. Your clergy abuse attorney in Portage, MI, from White Law PLLC, understands the challenges survivors face and is dedicated to helping you get the justice you deserve. We will fight tirelessly to protect your rights so you can put the trauma of this experience behind you.
With over $1.2 billion recovered for our clients, our firm has the resources and experience to handle even the most complex clergy abuse cases. Contact us today to request a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss the specific circumstances of your case and learn more about your legal options. You can reach us by phone or through our online contact form to schedule yours as soon as today.
You have the right to reach out to
a clergy sex abuse attorney and
discuss your right to legal action.
