Religious And Clergy Sex Abuse Lawsuits
Over the last several years, more and more has come to light about sexual abuse in religious institutions, child sexual abuse by the clergy and the church hierarchy’s efforts to cover it up. I founded Kircher Law, LLC, in Maineville to help victims of sexual abuse throughout Ohio hold their assailants accountable for their actions. I am attorney Konrad Kircher, and if you or someone you love was abused by a member of the clergy or a religious institution, I can help you hold the predators accountable for their actions.
What Is Clergy Abuse?
Clergy abuse is when an individual with authority in a religious institution uses their power to engage in inappropriate sexual activity with minors. A few examples of this behavior include:
- Talking about sex or sexual acts with minors
- Coercing minors into engaging in sexual acts
- Fostering inappropriate romantic relationships with minors
- Touching minors in any way that makes them feel unsafe or uncomfortable
No one deserves to be mistreated in this way. If you believe a religious authority figure sexually abused you, do not hesitate to reach out. I can help you take action and seek the justice you deserve. Call me today at 888-725-0811 so we can start on your case.
The Stats On Clergy Sexual Abuse
There is limited data on how many people have been abused by religious officials in Ohio. This is partially because the state’s attorney general office cannot investigate these matters. However, activists are pushing for change, as other states like Illinois, Maryland and Pennsylvania have all conducted their own investigations into these matters. Nationally, however, there has been more data to review. According to a recent report from the National Catholic Reporter, more than 3,000 abuse survivors came forward in the U.S. between 2020 and 2021.
One case of abuse is one too many. Sadly, it’s still all too common in the Catholic Church and other religious organizations.
Long-Term Effects Of Child Sexual Abuse
Children – especially boys – are the most likely to be victims of child sex abuse in religious institutions. In addition, abuse in these scenarios is typically ongoing and lasts for a lengthy period of time. A child who was abused by someone in the clergy was most likely groomed over a long period and made to feel special, all while the abuser began to progressively push boundaries.
All of this leaves the victim to suffer from long-term emotional trauma. Survivors commonly experience:
- Feelings of guilt and self-blame
- Depression
- Low self-esteem
- Challenges with sexual relationships as adults
- Difficulties with boundaries
Oftentimes, it can take adult survivors of child sex abuse years to come forward about the abuse they suffered as children. Recovery from child sex abuse is complicated and can take a team. I serve as a member of this team by helping victims pursue lawsuits for damages in civil court to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. This can also include seeking damages from the religious institutions themselves when there is negligent behavior and evidence that they knew or should have known the abuse was happening.
How A Clergy Abuse Attorney Can Help You
It takes considerable courage to speak up and take action against an abuser, especially in a religious organization. I have devoted my life and career to helping you and your loved ones hold these abusers accountable. I understand your situation is complex and that you need someone who is caring, sensitive and tenacious to help you seek justice. My extensive knowledge of the law and how religious institutions handle sexual abuse claims can give you a significant advantage in your case. I am also well-versed in gathering the needed evidence to support your case. Whether that evidence includes medical records, psychological evaluations or patterns of neglect and misbehavior by religious institutions, I know what it takes to obtain and demonstrate this evidence effectively in court. I have worked with countless survivors across Ohio, and I am committed, motivated and qualified to handle your case.
Consult With A Clergy Sex Abuse Lawyer For Free
I offer free initial consultations. During this time, I will listen to your story and answer any questions that you may have about my work. To schedule your free appointment, call my office at 888-725-0811 or send me an email using my website form.