List of Accused Priests in Montana
Clergy sexual abuse is a big issue in the Montana Diocese, with more victims coming out with their stories in recent years. Our team at Injury Lawyer Team is dedicated to working with these survivors to get the justice they deserve. Victims often hesitate to report their cases due to the stress and trauma after the alleged abuse occurred and the lengthy legal process. We are committed to making the process easier for abuse victims so the perpetrators are held accountable.
Last Name | First Name | Diocese | Status | Accusations (Summary) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ascher | Berthold | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Capuchin Brother. Named publicly as accused by the Great Falls-Billings diocese on its list 8/21/18. Died in 5/67. Included on the St. Joseph Province Capuchins’ list of those with substantiated allegations against them. |
| Rene | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Great Falls-Billings diocese on its list 8/21/18. |
Brown | Anthony M. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Monsignor. Priest of the Diocese of Helena. Named publicly as accused by the Great Falls-Billings diocese on its list 8/21/18. Worked in Great Falls at some point. |
Burke | Martin | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 8/21/18. |
Brown | John Joseph | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | The Society of Jesus, Oregon Province, Reorganization Plan, posted on its website the names of all members who were identified as perpetrators of sexual abuse in proofs of claims filed in the bankruptcy, and who have not denied the allegation. |
Cawley | William M. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Sued | Harrisburg PA priest accused of sex abuse of a child in the early 1970s, but the allegation was not credible, per an independent investigation. |
Custer | Arnold L. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Great Falls-Billings diocese on its list 8/21/2018. Included on the Jesuits West list 12/7/2018. Died 3/2/1969. |
O’Reilly | Father | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Sued | One male plaintiff in a civil suit filed by 10 accusers in 2/12 alleged abuse as a minor by O’Reilly when he was attending St. Xavier’s Mission and Bellarmine Prep School. |
Druggan | Dennis | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Druggan was removed as president and rector of St. Lawrence Seminary High School after allegations that he had sexually assaulted a minor at St. Labre Indian School in Ashland, MT in mid- to late-1980s. He denied the allegations. |
Gleason | James | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Capuchin Brother. “Jim.” Named publicly as accused by the Diocese of Great Falls-Billings on its list 8/21/18. Per a 6/82 news article, Gleason was granted a sabbatical for studies. |
Haligowski | John | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 8/21/18. |
Heretick | Joseph S. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Settled | A female plaintiff and a man claimed abuse by Heretick in the mid-1980s. The diocese agreed to settle 86 claims of abuse from 1940s-1990s, including against Heretick, for $20M. |
Gorman | Charles | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Accused by the diocese of sexual abuse, and was named publicly on its list 8/21/18. |
Hettinger | Sigfrieda | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | School Sister of St. Francis (SSSF) of St. Joseph Convent, died in 2016 at age 87. |
Hogan | William A. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 8/21/18. |
Janson | Leo F. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 8/21/18. (Name misspelled Jansen). Died in 2006. |
Hoffmann | Emmett | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Sued | Hoffman was named as abuser in a civil suit filed against the diocese and order by a member of the Cheyenne tribe. He was assigned to St. Labre Mission School in Ashland in 1954 and left the order in 1993. |
Kendrigan | John Patrick | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 8/21/18. Worked in Glendive, Jordan, Poplar and Great Falls. Died 12/10/67 at age 50. |
Livix | Harvey D. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Accused of sexual misconduct by the diocese, left priesthood, and settled in Arizona. |
Krauth | Lothar Konrad | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Convicted | German priest, who was assigned to Our Lady of Lourdes in Great Falls, was found to have a large amount of child pornography on his computer. He was sentenced to five years in prison. |
| Kramer | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | First named publicly as accused by the Great Falls-Billings diocese on its list 8/21/18, Sister Catherine was a School Sister of St Francis of St Joseph Convent and a principal of St Paul’s Mission School on the Fort Belknap Reservation. |
Kohlman | Leonard A. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | The Society of Jesus, Oregon Province, reorganized in 2011 and posted on its website the names of all members who were identified as perpetrators of sexual abuse. Kohlman’s name is included on this list. |
Malee | Kevin J. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Charged | Malee was charged with two counts of deviant sexual conduct in 1987 and accused of assaulting a 15-year-old for two years. The dioceses have secret archives files that were never disclosed. |
Morgan | Kirk C. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 8/21/18. |
McTague | Thomas | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Listed publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 8/21/18. Died 4/27/08. |
Moreau | Clarence | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Sued | Clarence Talks Different grew up on Fort Belknap Reservation and changed name to Clarence Moreau when he became Jesuit brother working on the reservation. He was accused of sexually abusing 4 children at St. Paul in Hays 1959-71. |
Mikulich | Joseph | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | A woman reported in 1985 that Mikulich sexually abused her when she was 12-21 in the 1970s. The archdiocese refused to assist the woman and did not tell Mikulich (then age 87) of the allegations. |
Neville | Emmett | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Great Falls-Billings diocese on its list 8/21/18. |
Papes | Joseph T. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Papes was named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 8/21/18. He died 10/26/06 in Michigan. |
Reilly | James J. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Great Falls-Billings diocese on its list 8/21/18. On the Fargo diocese’s list 1/2/20. Allegations substantiated. Died in 1990. |
Pulvermacher | Carl | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Diocese of Great Falls-Billings on its list 8/21/18.Died 5/29/06. |
Reynolds | James | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Sued | One female plaintiff in a civil suit filed by 10 accusers in 2/12 alleged abuse by Robinson when she was a minor and he was assigned to Wolf Point, MT. On diocese’s list 8/21/18. |
| Sabel | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Sister of St. Francis of Oldenburg, IN. Died 7/20/80. Named publicly as accused by the Great Falls-Billings diocese on its list 8/21/18. |
Ryan | John I. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Sued | In 2017, a lawsuit was filed against the diocese for sexually abusing minors at St. Paul Mission. |
Robinson | Edmund J. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Sued | Robinson was accused of abuse of at least one girl in 1963 at St. Ignatius Mission in the Helena diocese, and of raping at least 9 children on Indian reservations in the 1950s and 1960s. He died in 2014. |
Savage | Patrick F. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Diocese of Great Falls-Billings on its list 8/21/2018. Included on the Jesuits West list 12/7/2018. Died 9/15/1965. |
| Benno | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | School Sister of St. Francis (SSSF) of St. Joseph Convent. Named publicly as accused by the Great Falls-Billings diocese on its list 8/21/18. |
Simoneau | Frederick | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Sued | Five plaintiffs filed a lawsuit against the diocese in 2017 alleging that he repeatedly abused them as children at St. Paul Mission in Hays. |
| Charissma | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | School Sister of St. Francis (SSSF) of St. Joseph Convent. Named publicly as accused by the Great Falls-Billings diocese on its list 8/21/18. |
| Christine | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | School Sister of St. Francis (SSSF) of St. Joseph Convent. Named publicly as accused by the Diocese of Great Falls-Billings on its list 8/21/18. |
| Mary | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | School Sister of St. Francis (SSSF) of St. Joseph Convent. Named publicly as accused by the Great Falls-Billings diocese on its list 8/21/18. |
| Regina | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | School Sister of St. Francis (SSSF) of St. Joseph Convent. Named publicly as accused by the Great Falls-Billings diocese on its list 8/21/18. |
| Vonnie | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | School Sister of St. Francis (SSSF) of St. Joseph Convent. Named publicly as accused by the Great Falls-Billings diocese on its list 8/21/18. |
Szudera | Theodore F. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Sued | A civil suit was filed by 10 accusers against Szudera, who was a priest in Livingston. |
Zarek | Andrew J. | Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT | Accused | Monsignor. Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 8/21/18. Retired 1982. Died 12/30/88. |
Balfe | Joseph A. | Diocese of Helena MT | Sued | Balfe was accused of abuse of students at St. Ignatius Mission Boarding School on Flathead Indian Reservation in late 1950s-early 1960s. He was named in five complaints in a 2011 civil suit. |
Barry | James | Diocese of Helena MT | Sued | Barry was a “credibly accused” sexual abuser, and was listed on the Helena diocese’s website in compliance with the bankruptcy settlement. |
Butori | Harry | Diocese of Helena MT | Settled | Accused of sexual abuse of at least one minor. Included on the Helena diocese’s list, posted to its website 4/29/15 in compliance with the non monetary terms of the 3/5/15 bankruptcy settlement. Died 4/14/05. |
Bullman | Rudolph | Diocese of Helena MT | Charged | Bullman, a retired millworker, was arrested and placed on leave without privileges in 12/11 after an investigation found images of nude, underage boys on his computer and game console. He pleaded not guilty and was given three years deferred adjudication. |
Christofferson | Kevin L. | Diocese of Helena MT | Unsubstantiated | Christofferson was ordained for the Diocese of Great Falls and worked in Butte parishes until 2022, when he was placed on leave. |
Delane | John | Diocese of Helena MT | Settled | Accused of sexual abuse of at least one minor. Included on the Helena diocese’s list, posted to its website 4/29/15 in compliance with the non monetary terms of the 3/5/15 bankruptcy settlement. Died 1/30/71. |
Delaney | Harry | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly by the diocese as accused on its lit 4/29/15. Assigned to parishes in Anaconda, Butte, Eurkea Kalispell, and to a hospital in Deer Lodge. Died 3/11/1957. |
Dimier | Augustine M. | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Born in 1864, died in 1950, accused of sexually abusing at least one minor, listed on the Helena diocese’s website 4/29/2015. |
Dumbeck | Ignatius J. | Diocese of Helena MT | Sued | 45 people are suing the Ursuline Order and Helena Diocese for abuse by “Father Dimmick”. |
Sullivan | Father | Diocese of Helena MT | Sued | In 9/11 civil suit against Ursuline Order and Helena Diocese, 45 people allege abuse by “Fr. Sullivan”. |
Finnegan | Joseph | Diocese of Helena MT | Acquitted | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 4/29/15. It notes that there were “criminal accusations” that resulted in acquittal. Retired 7/1/2002. |
Geis | Louis J. | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Accused of the sexual abuse of at least one minor. Included on the Helena diocese’s list posted to its website 4/29/15 in compliance with the non- monetary terms of the 3/5/15 bankruptcy settlement. Died 7/8/94. |
Ferguson | George | Diocese of Helena MT | Sued | Fr. Fergie was named as an abuser in an amended civil suit filed against the Helena Diocese and Ursuline Order of Nuns by multiple plaintiffs. He died in 1986 and was presumed murdered. |
Gillen | A. M. D. | Diocese of Helena MT | Settled | Ordained in Canada, Accused of sexual abuse of at least one minor, Died 7/30/87. |
Gallant | Rene | Diocese of Helena MT | Settled | Br. Charlie Gallant was accused of abuse of at least 28 individuals and was named among the ten most prolific abusers in the Jesuits’ $166M settlement in 2011 with over 500 plaintiffs. |
Harrington | Daniel B. | Diocese of Helena MT | Settled | Accused of sexual abuse of at least one minor. Included on the Helena diocese’s list posted to its website 4/29/15 in compliance with the non-monetary terms of the 3/5/15 bankruptcy settlement. Died 11/23/97. |
Hartman | Robert J. | Diocese of Helena MT | Settled | Accused of sexually abusing at least one minor. Included on the Helena diocese’s list posted to its website 4/29/15 in compliance with the non- monetary terms of the 3/5/15 bankruptcy settlement. Died 8/12/96. |
Harris | Bernard A. | Diocese of Helena MT | Settled | Father Harry Harris, a Jesuit, was accused of raping 4 of 8 siblings in OR, and was named as an abuser of at least one child at St. Ignatius Mission in MT in a 9/2011 civil suit. |
Hillen | Daniel B. | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Accused of sexually abusing at least one minor, included on the Helena diocese’s list posted to its website 4/29/15, died 7/19/03. |
| Karges | Diocese of Helena MT | Settled | Mother Loyola, supervisor of the boys’ dorm at St. Ignatius Mission Boarding School, was accused of abusing at least 24 of the over 500 claimants included in massive $166M settlement with Jesuits in 2011. |
Kerrigan | John P. | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Accused of sexually abusing at least one minor. Included on the Helena diocese’s list posted to its website 4/29/15 in compliance with the non- monetary terms of the 3/5/15 bankruptcy settlement. Died 7/21/84. |
Kirchen | Paul | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Accused of sexual abuse of at least one minor, included on the Helena diocese’s list posted to its website 4/29/15, died 4/19/89. |
Lowney | Emmett F. | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Accused of sexual abuse of at least one minor. Listed on the Helena diocese’s website 4/29/15, died 7/31/75. |
McCarthy | Bernard J. | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Accused of sexual abuse of at least one minor. Listed on the Helena diocese’s website 4/29/15, died 9/16/03, and was included on the bankruptcy settlement list. |
Mallman | Egon | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Mallman was included on the Society of Jesus, Oregon Province, website list of perpetrators of sexual abuse, without any additional information on claims against him, as part of a non-monetary commitment of the bankruptcy settlement. |
McCormick | James W. | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Accused of sexual abuse of at least one minor, included on the Helena diocese’s list posted to its website 4/29/15. |
| Bernadette | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Helena diocese on its list 4/29/15. Assigned to St. Ignatius Mission at some point between 1940 and 1975. |
| Catherine | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Member of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd. Named publicly as accused by the Helena diocese on its list 4/29/15. Worked at some point at Good Shepherd Home. |
Marie | Clement | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Helena diocese on its list 4/29/15. Assigned at some point to St. Ignatius Mission 1940-1975. |
| Grace | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Helena diocese on its list 4/29/15. Assigned at some point to St. Ignatius Mission between 1940 and 1975. |
| Marianne | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 4/29/15. Worked some time between 1940 and 1975 at St. Ignatius Mission. |
| Henrietta | Diocese of Helena MT | Sued | One woman alleged abuse by Mother Henrietta, Mother Camellia and Sister John at St. Ignatius Mission on Flathead Indian Reservation. |
| Camilla | Diocese of Helena MT | Sued | One woman alleged abuse by Mother Camellia, Mother Henrietta, and Sister John at St. Ignatius Mission on Flathead Indian Reservation. |
O’Donnell | Robert J. | Diocese of Helena MT | Sued | Accused of multiple instances of unpermitted, harmful and offensive sexual conduct with a teenage boy, Msgr. Spain was placed on leave in 1985, moved to Hawaii, and became pastor of Holy Trinity in Honolulu in 1989. |
Obersinner | Joseph L. | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Accused of sexual abuse of at least one minor. Retired to Spokane’s Jesuit community at Gonzaga University, died in Los Gatos, CA. |
Okom | Dusan Anthony | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Accused of sexually abusing at least one minor. Included on the Helena diocese’s list, posted to its website 4/29/15 in compliance with the non- monetary terms of the 3/5/15 bankruptcy settlement. Died 1/10/10. |
Philipsen | Martin H. | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Philpsen was accused of sexual abuse of at least one minor. He was assigned to St. William’s in Shelby MT 1971-78 and worked at Southeast Catholic High School in the Green Bay archdiocese 1939-43 and Central Catholic 1943-48. |
Reuter | Laurence | Diocese of Helena MT | Sued | One of several individuals with credible allegations of abuse named in one of two lawsuits filed in 2011 against the two Montana dioceses. She is accused of abuse at St. Ignatius Mission. |
| Seymor | Diocese of Helena MT | Sued | Three allegations of abuse by Mother Cecelia at St. Ignatius Mission on the Flathead Indian Reservation are included in a 9/11 civil suit. |
Pritzl | Peter P. | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Accused of sexual abuse of at least one minor. Died 10/03/93. |
| Catherine | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Helena diocese on its list 4/29/15. Assigned at some point to St. Ignatius Mission between 1940 and 1975. |
| Daniels | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Helena diocese on its list 4/29/15. Assigned at some point to St. Ignatius Mission 1940-75. |
| Finbarr | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Helena diocese on its list 4/29/19. Assigned at some point to St. Ignatius Mission 1940-75. |
| Frances | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Helena diocese on its list 4/29/15. Assigned at some point to St. Ignatius mission between 1940 and 1975. |
| Joan | Diocese of Helena MT | Sued | Allegations of abuse by Sister Joan at St. Ignatius Mission on Flathead Indian Reservation are included in 9/11 civil suit against Helena Diocese and Ursuline Order filed by 45 people against 4 nuns, 6 priests and 1 brother. |
| John | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Accused of abuse of two children in 9/11 civil suit against Ursuline Order and Helena Diocese. |
| Glenniatoss | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Helena diocese on its list 4/29/15. Worked at some point in the diocese. Religious order uncertain. |
| Margaret | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 4/29/2015. Worked at St. Ignatius Mission some time 1940-1975. |
| Martin | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 4/29/15. Worked at St. Ignatius Mission some time 1940-75. |
| Marion | Diocese of Helena MT | Sued | A civil suit was filed against the Ursuline Order and the Helena Diocese on 9/11/2015. |
Rose | Mary Agnes | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Member of the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (B.V.M.). Named publicly as accused by the Helena diocese on its list 4/29/15. Worked at some pint at Immaculate Conception School in Butte. |
| Mackey | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 4/29/15. Worked at St. Ignatius Mission some time 1940-75. |
Victor | Mary | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Member of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth (S.C.L.). Named publicly as accused by the Helena diocese on its list 4/29/15. Worked at some point at St. Helena School in Helena. |
| Monica | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 4/29/15. Worked at St. Ignatius Mission some time 1940-75. |
| Monica | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Helena diocese on its list 4/29/15. Worked at some point at St. Margaret School in Cut Bank. |
| Richildus | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the Helena diocese on its list 4/29/15. Worked at some point at St. Margaret School in Cut Bank. |
| Rita | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 4/29/15. Worked at St. Ignatius Mission some time 1940-75. |
| Teresa | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 4/29/15. Worked at St. Ignatius Mission some time 1940-75. |
Spraycar | Leonard J. | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Accused of sexual abuse of at least one minor. Included on the Helena diocese’s list, posted to its website 4/29/15 in compliance with the non- monetary terms of the 3/5/15 bankruptcy settlement. Died 3/31/84. |
Stimatz | Patrick N. | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Accused of sexual abuse of at least one minor. Included on the Helena diocese’s list, posted to its website 4/29/15 in compliance with the non- monetary terms of the 3/5/15 bankruptcy settlement. Died 5/4/86. |
Smart | Wilson F. | Diocese of Helena MT | Settled | Smart was known to the diocese by 1959 and admitted molesting more than 30 boys. He was named in at least three other suits which later settled, and was included on the diocese’s list posted to its website 4/29/15. |
Sorisio | John | Diocese of Helena MT | Sued | One woman alleged abuse as a child by Br. “Seoriso” on multiple occasions at St. Ignatius Mission on Flathead Indian Reservation. |
Taelman | Louis J. | Diocese of Helena MT | Accused | Accused of sexual abuse of at least one minor. Died 12/24/1961. |
About Clergy Sexual Abuse
Clergy sexual abuse involves a religious figure exploiting their authority and the trust people place in them to sexually assault vulnerable individuals. Victims often suffer long-lasting trauma and psychological scars, with some never fully recovering. If a clergy member witnesses or has good reason to suspect clergy sexual abuse occurring in their catholic church, it is important to report it immediately to law enforcement agencies as required by state law or risk penalties.
Table of Contents
In Montana, the legal process for clergy abuse cases begins with filing a complaint, which leads to a criminal investigation and potential charges. Victims can also pursue a civil lawsuit for damages, which involves evidence gathering, depositions, and potentially a trial.
Legal Support for Survivors in Montana
We are a reputable firm fully committed to helping victims of clergy sexual abuse get the legal aid they need. Our firm understands these cases’ impact on survivors, and we maintain the highest standards of care and professionalism when dealing with them. Victims are offered free, confidential consultations and unending support in all matters related to filing lawsuits and court proceedings.
Laws and Regulations in Montana
Montana has specific laws and regulations about clergy sexual abuse cases:
- Statute of Limitations: Under Montana’s new law passed in 2019, victims of childhood sexual abuse have nine years from when they turn 18 to sue their abuser. They also have an additional three years from discovering the impact of the abuse to file a lawsuit. The same time limits apply to institutions responsible for the victim’s care.
- Mandatory Reporting Laws: In Montana, officials, including clergy, are required to report child abuse to state authorities if they have reasonable cause to suspect it. However, the law exempts clergy from reporting if the alleged abuse is disclosed during a confidential conversation, like a confession, protected by the clergy-penitent privilege.
- Legislative Changes: Montana state often makes amendments to help survivors report their cases and seek justice. These changes have focused on extending the statutes of limitations for civil cases and enhancing protections for abuse victims.
- Compensation: Victims are entitled to sue their abuser for monetary compensation resulting from the distress caused by the abuse.
Filing a Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawsuit in Montana
Filing for a lawsuit involves various steps, which can often overwhelm the victim. Injury Lawyer Team can help you through this process by providing the following services:
- Initial Consultation: We’ll discuss your case, understand your needs, and explain your legal options.
- Evidence Collection: Our team will gather crucial evidence and necessary documentation for your case, such as medical records, witness statements, and relevant documents.
- Filing the Lawsuit: A formal complaint outlining the allegations and damages is filed in court. We’ll handle the official filing and all associated legal paperwork.
- Serving the Defendants: The complaint is served to the defendants, who must respond within a set period.
- Pre-Trial Proceedings: We’ll manage discovery, conduct depositions, and handle pre-trial motions efficiently.
- Settlement Negotiations: We’ll work to negotiate a fair and just settlement for you outside of court.
- Trial: If a settlement isn’t reached outside of court, we will represent the victim during the trial.
- Post-Trial Support: We’ll provide ongoing support and assistance, such as post-trial motions or appeals, even after the trial ends.
If you or someone you know is a survivor of clergy sexual abuse, contact Injury Lawyer Team today for a confidential consultation to begin your journey toward justice and healing.
Support Resources for Survivors in Montana
Clergy abuse survivors don’t have to suffer in silence. There are many legal and emotional support services in Montana to help them out:
- Beaverhead Community Support Center Hotline: 1-800-253-9811
- Big Horn YWCA Billings Hotline: 406-679-5145
- Blaine YWCA of Great Falls Hotline: 406-453-1018
- Broadwater The Friendship Center Hotline: 406-442-6800
- Carbon YWCA Billings Hotline: 406-245-4472
- Carbon Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (DSVS) Hotline: 406-425-2222
- Carter Custer Network Against Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault (CNADA) Hotline: 1-888-799-0542
- Cascade YWCA of Great Falls Hotline: 406-453-1018
- Cascade Voices of Hope Office: 1-406-268-1330
- Sexual Violence Prevention and Victim Services Program (SVPVS): Offers resources, support, and education to prevent sexual violence and assist survivors in their recovery. You can contact them at 406-444-3628.
- Montana Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence (MCADSV): A network of individuals and organizations collaborating to end domestic and sexual violence across Montana.
Notable Cases and Outcomes in Montana
Our attorneys have reviewed public and private settlement data related to Montana clergy abuse settlements. Depending on the circumstances pertaining to your case, these cases may be fairly valued in the $400,000 to $950,000 range. In cases of extreme conduct or if that case were to go before a jury, damages could exceed $1 million.
Many religious figures in Montana have been named in sexual assault cases from places like Francis Xavier Parish, St James Community Hospital, Butte Catholic Community North Parish, Immaculate Conception Parish, Ignatius Mission Parish, St Paul’s Mission School, York Catholic High School, and Lawrence Parish. The most notable cases were:
The Diocese of Helena: The Helena Diocese filed for bankruptcy in 2014 to address the cases of its catholic priests accused of sexual abuse. The settlement plan included over $21 million for around 360 victims, providing compensation and support while allowing the roman catholic diocese to continue its operations. Church officials also agreed to non-monetary terms as part of the settlement and have a contact for reporting such cases:
- Phone: 406-459-0513
- Email Address: victimassistant@diocesehelena.org
The Great Falls-Billings Diocese: The Great Falls-Billings Diocese filed for bankruptcy in 2017 due to numerous clergy accused of sexual abuse. This move was shrouded in controversy, and they had a lawsuit filed against them alleging that they had moved their assets to a non-profit organization. The diocese used the bankruptcy proceedings on a settlement plan of $20 million for 86 victims and agreed to non-monetary terms. They also have a direct reporting system:
- Phone: 406-750-2373
- Email Address: victimassistancecoord@gmail.com
Why Choose Injury Lawyer Team?
If you or someone you know has been a victim of clergy sexual abuse in Montana, the right law firm’s support can make all the difference. Choosing Injury Lawyer Team means choosing a team that will stand by you, fight for you, and help you find the path to healing and justice.
Comprehensive Services: We handle all aspects of your case with professionalism and care.
Experienced Team: Our attorneys have vast experience with clergy sexual abuse cases.
Proven Results: We have secured significant settlements and verdicts for our clients.
Commitment to Justice: We fight to hold abusers and protecting institutions accountable.
$14 Million Priest grooming and handling | $4 Million Deacon assault and rape | $3 Million Clergy child abuse filed in adulthood |
$3 Million Volunteer-perpetrated Catholic church abuse | $2 Million Religious school priest teen sexual abuse | $2 Million Clergy abuse case filed against a deceased priest |
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