The Catholic Church in Michigan has faced significant challenges related to sexual abuse allegations against clergy. Over the past few decades, more than 40 priests across the state’s seven dioceses have been accused of sexual misconduct.
One such case involves Father Leonard Cornelius sexual abuse accusations, who is still in active ministry in the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh.
If you or someone you love is a survivor of sexual abuse from clergy within the Catholic Church, you have the right to seek justice. Our experienced Michigan clergy sexual abuse lawyer can help you with holding perpetrators accountable and pursuing fair compensation. With a track record of securing over $1.4 billion in settlements, we are committed to helping survivors heal and find justice.
Sexual Abuse Claims Against Michigan Diocese
Survivors of sexual abuse, especially those who were victimized within a religious context, deserve justice and support. When individuals, particularly minors, are betrayed by those they trust, it can have devastating consequences.
At White Law PLLC, our Michigan sexual abuse lawyers are committed to helping survivors hold perpetrators accountable and embark on their healing journey.
In 2018, the Michigan Attorney General’s office launched a comprehensive investigation into clergy sexual abuse allegations within the state’s seven Catholic dioceses.
Four years later, the investigation into the Diocese of Marquette concluded, revealing that 44 priests had credible accusations of sexual abuse against them. One of the priests named in the report is Father Leonard Cornelius, who remains in active ministry today.
While only three of the 44 priests named in the Marquette Diocese report have faced criminal convictions, survivors of abuse can still seek justice.
Even if the statute of limitations has passed, stories coming forward about these abusers can still help hold the Church accountable for enabling these heinous acts. This is especially so in the case of the two priests accused of abuse who remain active in ministry. Contact our Michigan personal injury lawyers for help.
If you or someone you know
endured clergy sex abuse,
contact White Law PLLC today.
Sexual Abuse Allegations Against Father Leonard Cornelius
Father Leonard Cornelius was ordained in 1969 by the Diocese of Marquette and worked as a chaplain at the Carmelite Monastery in Iron Mountain, among other stations.
According to Bishop Accountability, he is still in active ministry as of 2022. The Byzantine Catholic Church in Pittsburgh, PA, listed him as a homilist.
The allegations of sexual abuse against Father Leonard Cornelius were reported as “sexual arousal [unintelligible] 16-year-old-male.” This abuse occurred in the 1980’s. After it was revealed, the Franciscans temporarily removed him from ministry for treatment.
He was then transferred to a different assignment outside the Diocese. The diocese did not provide any reported victim names or dates. He was recently publicly celebrated on the Franciscan Friars of St. John the Baptist Providence’s social media for his 50th year in ministry.
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The Question of Time in Michigan Sexual Abuse Cases
Survivors of sexual abuse often delay disclosure of their abuse due to trauma, repressed memories, guilt, and fear. By coming forward, survivors can validate their and other’s experiences and work to prevent future abuse.
In cases like Father Leonard Cornelius, time may not allow the pursuit of criminal or civil charges, but survivor stories could help people understand common signs of clergy abuse.
While Michigan law typically imposes a 10-year statute of limitations on clergy abuse claims, victims of clergy abuse may have additional options. If the victim was a minor at the time of the abuse, they have until their 28th birthday to file a claim. Additionally, there is no statute of limitations for first-degree criminal sexual conduct.
Even if significant time has passed, it is important to know that legal options may still be available. Our team is passionate about helping survivors of Michigan clergy abuse seek justice and healing.
Please reach out to our office to discuss your specific situation and explore potential legal options for survivors of clergy abuse.
Compensation Possible for Survivors of Clergy Abuse
Survivors of clergy abuse may be eligible to receive significant compensation for the harm they have suffered. This compensation can help cover the costs associated with the abuse and provide financial support for their recovery. Here are some common types of damages that may be recoverable in a clergy abuse lawsuit:
- Medical expenses: This includes the cost of past and future medical treatment, such as therapy, hospitalization, and medication.
- Lost wages: If the abuse has impacted the survivor’s ability to work, they may be eligible for compensation for lost wages.
- Loss of earning capacity: If the abuse has permanently impacted the survivor’s ability to earn a living, they may be entitled to compensation for future lost earnings.
- Pain and suffering: This includes physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: This encompasses the inability to participate in activities and enjoy life as a result of the abuse.
- Loss of consortium: If the abuse has impacted the survivor’s relationships, they may be eligible for compensation.
The amount of compensation available to be awarded in a clergy abuse case can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the abuse, the long-term impact the abuse has had, and the strength of the supporting evidence.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of clergy abuse, consulting with an experienced sexual abuse attorney can help you understand your rights under the law.
Working with a firm knowledgeable about sexual abuse cases like White Law PLLC ensures that you will receive the compassionate care and aggressive representation you need to find justice.
Get Help with Clergy Abuse Cases from White Law PLLC
At White Law PLLC, we understand the complex challenges faced by survivors of clergy sexual abuse. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to providing compassionate support and aggressive legal representation. We will work tirelessly to hold perpetrators accountable and help you seek justice through criminal and civil legal avenues.
Survivors can seek compensation for medical expenses, therapy costs, pain and suffering, and emotional distress by pursuing a lawsuit. Contact us for a free consultation. We will listen to your story and guide your legal options.
You have the right to reach out to
a clergy sex abuse attorney and
discuss your right to legal action.
