Understanding how to report clergy abuse at the Diocese of Saginaw can mean the difference between continued abuse and receiving justice and compensation. To report the abuse, you should first contact law enforcement and the church, then hire a clergy abuse lawyer to take action.
A Saginaw clergy sexual abuse lawyer can help you through the reporting process and protect your rights from start to finish. We are committed to helping you seek justice resources and receive maximum compensation.
Clergy Abuse in the Diocese of Saginaw
When church officials engage in improper conduct with members of their church’s congregation, it results in clergy abuse, which can be physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, spiritual, or financial in nature.
This abuse is further compounded because the victim’s trust in the safety of the church and its leaders has been betrayed and destroyed. The significant difference in the power dynamic and an abuser’s ability to control and shame the victim all exacerbate the abuse and trauma that a victim may experience.
Many victims are hesitant when it comes to breaking the silence because they fear retaliation and want protection. Survivors may also be concerned that others may not be able to help them, that they will cause trouble, or that the abuse they experienced was not bad enough to warrant reporting and legal involvement.
However, taking the time to report any instance of clergy abuse can actually open the door to healing and provide a sense of closure as you move forward.
As clergy abuse has continued to be a problem within the Catholic Church, the Diocese of Saginaw has not been immune to such activity. Among the Diocese of Saginaw sexual abuse allegations, 16 priests have been accused of sexual abuse dating back to as early as the 1900s. Reporting has become more important than ever to ensure that this list does not continue to grow.
If you or someone you know
endured clergy sex abuse,
contact White Law PLLC today.
Reporting Clergy Abuse to Law Enforcement is a Top Priority
First and foremost, reports of clergy abuse in the Diocese of Saginaw should be reported to law enforcement rather than just the church. This avenue can be more effective at achieving results and providing protection for the victim.
Similarly, reports can also be made to the Michigan Department of Attorney General via their hotline or online form.
Reporting outside of the church can also ensure that your voice is heard and action is taken against your abuser. Even though the state names clergy as mandated reporters in Michigan, knowledge of abuse gained through confession can be protected and treated as confidential information.
However, since this can sometimes be used as a method of covering up allegations of abuse, victims may not be heard as they would if they reported the misconduct to the police.
Once a report has been made to law enforcement officials, they will launch an investigation into the abuse committed by the clergy member. Afterward, a clergy abuse case may proceed as a criminal case. You may also pursue civil action against your abuser to monetarily recover some of your losses.
You can contact our clergy sex abuse
lawyers today and rest easier with
experienced attorneys tackling your case.
Clergy Abuse Reports Can be Made to the Diocese of Saginaw
The Diocese of Saginaw also has processes in place for members of the congregation to come forward and report clergy abuse. The church encourages those reporting abuse to contact law enforcement when they have experienced or have knowledge of clergy abuse. The Diocese of Saginaw also provides resources regarding the church sex abuse crisis to try to mitigate and prevent such acts of misconduct.
If the abuse comes from a bishop, the diocese advises that reports be made to the Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting Service (CBAR). The CBAR ensures that abusive behavior carried out by Catholic bishops is dealt with by the proper authorities within the church. Reports will also be passed on to law enforcement.
National Reporting Resources
You also have a national reporting option available. This can be helpful if you are not receiving sufficient action through other methods of reporting or are not comfortable reporting to the police or the church.
The national sexual assault hotline is available 24/7 and provides a host of valuable resources for care and assistance.
The hotline is operated by the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), and is one of the largest organizations working to prevent sexual assault.
They have helped 4.5 million survivors over the course of 30 years. Survivors can take advantage of their vast array of resources and service providers across the country.
File a Report with a Saginaw Clergy Abuse Lawyer
Filing a report with a Saginaw clergy abuse lawyer is also included in your reporting options. You report the abuse to them, and they can also help represent you after you have reported the abuse through a different channel. A lawyer is invested in your safety, well-being, and rights and will aggressively fight to ensure all three are protected.
When you hire a lawyer, they will advise on what your options are for reporting and legal action. Based on your specific situation, they can recommend effective strategies that will get you justice while limiting your interaction with your abuser during the legal process. They will also help you get the maximum compensation you are entitled to for the losses you have experienced.
Your lawyer is committed to providing support and being your advocate during a difficult time. They will help you gather the evidence you need to support your claim and get you results. A lawyer will also safeguard you from experiencing further trauma through the legal process as much as possible.
White Law PLLC Supports Clients from Start to Finish
Reporting clergy sexual abuse can be an emotional process, but it provides a chance for closure and helps you get the resources you need to begin to heal. White Law PLLC is your partner in this difficult journey, and we will fight for you until a fair settlement is reached.
Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you as you report clergy abuse at the Diocese of Saginaw.
You have the right to reach out to
a clergy sex abuse attorney and
discuss your right to legal action.
