When someone suffers harm at the hands of priests, ministers, or other clergy members, they have every right to hold that party civilly responsible for their actions. Cases may involve minors or people who were minors at the time of the incident, and occur while the attacker is acting in a position of authority at the church.

Actions may include unwanted touching or coercion to participate in inappropriate behavior. Speak to a Philadelphia clergy sexual assault lawyer at Marrone Law Firm, LLC, for help with your sexual assault compensation case.

Institutional Cover-Ups of Assault

Sexual abuse cases in Philadelphia religious institutions have been an ongoing issue for decades. A majority of faith-based institutions protect church leaders from criminal action, as they focus their attention on avoiding public scandal rather than protecting children.

Making matters worse, many victims are afraid or embarrassed to expose their abusers, and some may not come forward for years. It is essential to note that while the Catholic Church receives the most attention for sexual abuse cases, people have also come forward with allegations against other churches in recent years. It can occur in religious institutions of all types.

Understanding the Signs

Churches and clergy members have authority and hold trust within their religious communities. Many victims can feel pressure to comply or stay silent. Some signs of inappropriate actions may include:

  • Excessive communication or attention, and manipulative language, such as justifying inappropriate conduct
  • Sudden changes in conduct, such as attempts to isolate the minor or vulnerable individual from their family or friends
  • Inappropriate touching or physical contact
  • Avoiding questions or defensive and evasive responses when someone inquires about relationships or interactions

A Philadelphia attorney could investigate a clergy sexual assault claim, including by talking with experts and potential witnesses, to create a powerful case and hold the party financially responsible for their actions.

Possible Signs That Someone Was Abused

Some examples of possible signs that someone is a victim of clergy sexual abuse may include:

  • Sudden behavioral or mood changes, such as reluctance to participate in religious activities, and unexplained anger or emotional outbursts
  • Unexplained injuries, such as bruises without explanation
  • Sudden changes in appearance, such as appearing overly tired and stressed, or neglecting personal hygiene
  • Inconsistent stories or vocalizing mistrust or fear of certain clergy members

Victims could be children, vulnerable adults, such as those with mental impairments, and other congregants. The psychological impact may be severe, including potential trauma-related injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder.

The High Cost of Abuse and Timeline for Filing a Suit

Clergy sexual abuse cases have a significant impact on the victims, community, and the credibility of religious institutions. According to CHILD USA, the trauma that victims suffer as a result of the abuse impacts them throughout their lifetime. There can be catastrophic impacts on their brains, leading to social, emotional, and cognitive impairment and lifelong disabilities and disorders.

Anyone seeking compensation for an incident that occurred when they were younger has until they turn 55 years old to file the action in civil court. However, some may not qualify under the legislation, depending on when the abuse occurred. Therefore, it is necessary to speak to a knowledgeable clergy sexual assault lawyer in Philadelphia to determine the deadline based on case specifics.

Call a Knowledgeable Clergy Sexual Assault Attorney in Philadelphia

Victims who suffer sexual abuse at the hands of a clergy member often feel the consequences of their actions for a lifetime. They may have trouble in all areas of their life, relating to the psychological and emotional injuries they sustained because of the unlawful actions of someone they trusted.

An experienced Philadelphia clergy sexual assault lawyer at Marrone Law Firm, LLC, understands your challenges, and you do not have to face this time alone. Contact the office today to schedule an appointment and review your potential personal injury case.