Ann Arbor Clergy Abuse Lawyer

Get Justice Against Clergy Members With an Abuse Lawyer in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Clergy sex abuse is a devastating violation that can deeply impact sexual abuse survivors and their families, leaving enduring emotional and psychological scars. At Injury Lawyer Team, we are dedicated to supporting survivors of such abuse by providing compassionate legal guidance as they seek justice. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual abuse and wants to seek justice, you need an Ann Arbor clergy abuse lawyer.

Settlements Recovered by Our Ann Arbor Clergy Abuse Lawyers

$14,200,000 Recovery for six young men who were groomed and fondled by a priest at a religious school. The priest was hired at the school despite a known record of abuse at other parishes.
$2,800,000 Settlement for abuse that occurred at a summer camp operated by church officials.
$1,500,000 Recovery for a 55-year-old man against a deceased priest.
$4,100,000 Settlement for a woman who was assaulted and raped by a deacon at a large Midwestern church.

Why Hire Injury Lawyer Team

At Injury Lawyer Team, we are committed to helping survivors of clergy sexual abuse in Ann Arbor pursue justice and accountability. Our experienced legal team understands the profound and lasting effects clergy abuse can have, and we work diligently to hold religious institutions accountable and seek compensation for the harm you’ve endured.

We leverage our expertise to navigate the complexities of clergy sexual abuse claims, advocating tirelessly to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Throughout the legal process, we provide compassionate guidance, ensuring that you are informed, protected, and supported through every step of your civil claim.

Book a free consultation

Prevalence and Notable Cases of Clergy Sex Abuse in Ann Arbor

Several notable clergy sex abuse and sexual assault cases have emerged in Ann Arbor, shedding light on the serious nature of this issue. Among them is Timothy Crowley, who pleaded guilty on August 23, 2023, to two felony counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct.

As part of his plea deal, Crowley is set to serve five years on probation, with the first year spent in jail. Additionally, he must undergo sex offender treatment and register as a sex offender for monitoring purposes.

What’s the Profile of Most Clergy Sex Abuse Victims?

The typical clergy sex abuse victim often includes minors and young adults, although individuals of all ages can be affected by sexual abuse cases. Victims usually have a deep-seated trust in their religious leaders, making them particularly susceptible to manipulation and exploitation.

The consequences those who have suffered abuse face are profound and long-lasting, often including emotional trauma manifesting as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and feelings of shame or guilt.

What Are the Usual Signs of Clergy Sexual Abuse Among Children?

Recognizing the common signs of clergy sex abuse among child victims is crucial for early intervention and support. Indicators may include sudden changes in behavior, withdrawal from friends or family, unexplained injuries or physical complaints, complaints about attending religious services, and heightened fear around clergy members and other authority figures.

Consult a clergy abuse lawyer

Eligibility to File a Clergy Sexual Abuse Claim in Ann Arbor

Civil lawsuits for clergy sex abuse can be initiated by various parties, including child victims with the help of parents filing on the child’s behalf, adult victims of recent abuse or assault, as well as adult survivors seeking justice for the abuse they endured during childhood.

Liable Parties in Clergy Sex Abuse Cases

In civil suit cases involving clergy sexual assault or abuse, individual liability pertains to the potential criminal charges and civil responsibilities that may fall on the offending clergy member for their harmful actions.

In addition, religious institutions can face institutional liability under various legal theories, including negligent hiring or supervision of staff members, failure to report suspected abuse, and vicarious liability for the actions of their priests or church leaders. You may be eligible to seek compensation for their negligence. We can discuss who you may be able to recover compensation from in a confidential consultation.

The Statute of Limitations for Filing a Civil Claim in Ann Arbor

In Michigan, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit related to child sexual abuse allows victims to bring their claims until they turn 28 years old. However, an update to state law introduced in 2018 established a three-year discovery rule.

This means that survivors can file lawsuits within three years from when they recognize or should have reasonably recognized their injury and its connection to the abusive acts, even if they are older than 28.

Types of Cases Handled by Our Clergy Sex Abuse Attorneys

Our lawyers handle a wide range of cases involving sexual assault and abuse perpetrated by Catholic church priests, pastors, and other religious leaders across various religious institutions.

Our firm is prepared to tackle cases involving clergy members from local dioceses, such as the Diocese of Lansing in Michigan, reinforcing our commitment to advocating for survivors within our community.

Take legal action today

Steps to Take if You Are a Victim of Clergy Sexual Abuse

If you find yourself a victim of sexual abuse, prioritize your immediate safety by reaching out to trusted friends, family members, or shelters. Ensuring your personal safety is the first thing you should always do after being sexually abused. Documenting any evidence of the abuse is crucial. This includes taking photographs and keeping records of incidents. Seeking legal help can guide you through obtaining protective orders or pursuing other legal remedies.

In Michigan, resources like the Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence offer support groups and counseling services for sex abuse victims in various cities throughout the state.

How Our Ann Arbor Clergy Sex Abuse Lawyers Can Help

Our Ann Arbor clergy sex abuse attorneys can help by starting with an initial consultation to evaluate your case and understand your situation. We then conduct thorough investigations to gather critical evidence that supports your claims.

We guide survivors of sexual abuse through the legal process of filing a lawsuit against the liable parties, explaining potential outcomes along the way. Additionally, we will represent you during settlement negotiations or at trial if necessary, ensuring that your voice is heard throughout every step of the process.

The Cost of Hiring a Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Hiring our Ann Arbor clergy sexual abuse attorneys involves a contingency fee arrangement, meaning you pay no upfront costs. Instead, we only collect fees if we successfully secure compensation for you.

This ensures that your financial situation will not prevent you from seeking the justice and support you deserve when dealing with a clergy sex abuse or sexual assault claim.

Compensation for Clergy Sexual Abuse Victims in Ann Arbor

Victims of clergy sex abuse may be entitled to various types of compensation, including medical expenses, emotional distress damages, and punitive damages aimed at holding offenders accountable.

The amount of compensation can vary based on factors such as the severity and duration of the abuse, emotional trauma experienced, and any financial losses incurred.

Contact Us for A Confidential Consultation

If you or a loved one has experienced clergy sexual abuse, it is important to take action and seek the support you deserve, empowering survivors in their journey. At Injury Lawyer Team, we are dedicated to helping victims understand their rights and pursue legal action. We provide compassionate and confidential consultations to discuss your case and explore your options for pursuing justice.

Call us or complete our online contact form.

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.