The repeated and persistent failure on the part of churches to prevent sexual abuse has been known for over a generation. Priests, deacons, pastors, and other members of the clergy have preyed on vulnerable children in ways that are difficult to imagine. The victims of this abuse have the ability to seek justice. This includes holding perpetrators and churches liable for their actions and demanding fair compensation for their experiences.
A Pleasanton clergy sexual abuse lawyer may be able to help you pursue your case. They understand the impact these events can have on people years or decades after the fact. Our personal injury attorneys are here to perform a full investigation into the incident and demand the compensation needed to make things right.
Churches and Their Duty to Protect Children
Members of the clergy have a complicated relationship with children and the community as a whole. Priests, pastors, and other members of church leadership often take a direct role in the lives of children when performing church services, teaching classes, and preparing children to take a more active role in the church. As a result, these people are often in direct contact with children in private settings.
It is reasonable to expect our children will be safe in these settings. Sadly, we know this is not always the case. Major news stories have laid bare the predatory nature of some members of the clergy. They have also revealed the failure on the part of the church to hold these clergy members responsible.
Both abusive clergy members and the church as a whole are liable for all resulting abuse. A Pleasanton clergy sexual abuse attorney is ready to provide more information about the obligations that churches have to keep people safe and why those failures amount to legal liability.
Seeking Fair Payments for Abused Children
Instances of child sexual abuse are always serious matters. Making things more complicated is that people may not realize they experienced trauma as a child until they reach adulthood. Under traditional laws, this made it difficult to file criminal reports or demand compensation for their experiences.
Thankfully, changes in the law allow many adults to come forward with their stories and seek justice. Assembly Bill 218 extended the statute of limitations for the victims of childhood sexual abuse. Victims can file civil lawsuits until they reach the age of 40 or within five years after they discover their abuse, whichever is later.
A clergy sexual abuse lawyer in Pleasanton could help victims determine if they fall within this time window. They can also take the lead in determining how an event has changed a victim’s past, present, and future. The resulting lawsuits can demand compensation for emotional traumas associated with past clergy abuse.
Speak with a Pleasanton Clergy Sexual Abuse Attorney Today
Examples of members of the clergy committing sexual abuse are rampant. This behavior has affected thousands of children. If you have recently discovered that you were a victim of this abuse, you have the right to demand compensation from members of the clergy and the church as a whole.
A Pleasanton clergy sexual abuse lawyer wants to help you make things right. We are ready to delve years into the past to discover incidents of abuse and any coverup the church may have committed. We also work to discover the impact of the event on your life and demand proper payments in and out of court. Contact us today to discuss your case.