In the past, clergy sexual abuse has been concealed and kept a secret in many communities. The victims of these acts are often made to feel shameful or embarrassed so they do not come forward with their stories. As such, it is important that structures of support and accountability be in place to protect congregation members and hold any priests engaging in misconduct accountable.

Additionally, secular laws can be implemented that give more stringent punishments for those found guilty of sexual assault within religious institutions. Through increased vigilance and accountability, we can work towards ensuring a safe and dignified spiritual environment for all members of faith communities impacted by clergy sexual abuse.

Holding the Church Accountable for Clergy Sexual Abuse

Many churches has long promised to protect its congregation from harm and exploitation, yet too often it fails to live up to that promise and perpetrators of clergy sexual abuse go unpunished. It is essential that we hold the church accountable for its actions-- an independent and transparent investigation must be conducted in order to identify those who are responsible and take steps to ensure they can never hurt another person.

We must also do more to create a culture that eradicates victim blaming, listening instead to victims' stories and providing them with trauma informed care. Without significant changes in both policies and attitudes, the cycle of abuse will undoubtedly continue.

Seeking Compensation, Closure & Peace of Mind

As more and more people come forward with stories of clergy sexual assault from their past, it is clear that this is the time to stand up for justice. While nothing can erase the acts of the perpetrators, holding them accountable through civil suits can help prevent clergy sexual abuse from happening to others in the future. When you come to Grewal Law PLLC to begin a clergy sexual abuse claim, you make a difference not only for yourself but also for everyone who has been or may be in your situation. Being provided due compensation for your suffering can also help bring you a sense of closure and stability after such a long period of unrest.

Damages you may be able to recover in your clergy sexual abuse claim:

• Past and ongoing emotional trauma
• Therapy costs related to trauma treatment
• Health care and medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Lessened overall enjoyment of life

No law firm fights for sexual abuse survivors quite like Grewal Law PLLC. Our team of sexual assault attorneys does not shy away from any challenge. We will fight to secure justice and accountability to secure healing for our clients. We are taking on human trafficking and sexual assault cases throughout Michigan to try to do our part to end these horrifying abuses and demand accountability for those responsible.

We’re Here to Help With Confidential Consultations

At Grewal Law PLLC, we understand the sensitive nature of clergy sexual abuse and its long-term impact on victims. We recognize that finding professional support can be difficult, and seek to make the process as comfortable and accessible to survivors as possible. Through confidential consultations, we provide counseling services centered on the needs of survivors, giving victims the space to heal. Our commitment is that these consultations will remain strictly confidential so that survivors can feel confident putting their trust in us to help them through this traumatic experience. We are here to listen, provide assistance, and connect people with resources for further support.

Many states across the country have been changing their laws to allow survivors of sexual abuse to hold abusers and enablers accountable. In order to end clergy sexual abuse and bring its offenders to justice, all survivors of sexual abuse must speak up and share their stories. Our Michigan clergy sexual abuse lawyers understand that it can be intimidating and frightening to come forward. If you were sexually abused by a clergy member, let Grewal Law PLLC be your voice.

Pursuing Civil Justice for Victims of Catholic Dioceses Assault

In 2019, the nation continued to learn more and more about criminal acts of sexual abuse carried out by clergy members against young children. In particular, Catholic Dioceses across the country had begun investigating internal records for evidence of clergy sexual assault by past and current clergy members. The problem had become so vast and concerning, Pope Francis called a historic four-day summit with 190 Roman Catholic Church leaders to come up with a concrete solution and means to move forward.

Michigan’s Investigation Into Catholic Dioceses

Similarly, the Michigan Attorney General began conducting an investigation into allegations of sexual abuse against all seven of the state’s Catholic Dioceses. As part of this investigation into clergy sexual abuse throughout the state, many priests and clergy members have already been accused of serious sexual crimes. In December 2019, Attorney General Dana Nessel announced that seven priests had been officially charged by her office. The AG also announced that their task force had received complaints and allegations against 270 priests in 2019 alone.

Employers are considered responsible for the actions of their employees, which means the Catholic Church may be legally liable to offer compensation to thousands of Michigan abuse victims. However, because these abusive acts were mostly committed in childhood, many victims falsely believe that they cannot bring a lawsuit due to statute of limitations issues. In recognition of this problem – and the gravity of child sexual abuse – Michigan allows victims to take legal action for sexually abusive acts perpetrated when they were under the age of 18, provided that they file before their 28^th birthday. Of course, it’s crucial to speak with a qualified attorney, as these laws are complex and ever-changing.