Sexual abuse allegations have plagued many religious organizations in recent times. An overwhelming body of evidence proves that tens of thousands—if not hundreds of thousands—of children have experienced sexual abuse at the hands of clergy members, many of whom were not only enabled but actively shielded from criminal accountability by unscrupulous church leaders.
If a priest or other religious figure abused you or your child, you have legal options. A San Diego clergy child sexual abuse lawyer from The Cifarelli Law Firm could help you understand and enforce your legal rights. Our religious organization sexual abuse attorneys understand how challenging it may be to pursue a claim like this, and we could provide dependable and compassionate support in obtaining the restitution you deserve. Contact us today to learn more.
Holding All Liable Parties Accountable for Clergy Sexual Abuse
A clergy member who abuses their position to sexually assault, molest, or otherwise harm a minor could be held personally liable for their actions in both criminal and civil court. However, lawsuits over childhood sexual abuse by a San Diego clergy member are uniquely complex, making skilled legal representation essential.
It is possible to hold the religious institution that employed and facilitated the abuser’s misconduct liable for ensuing damages. Our attorneys could thoroughly investigate the abuse you experienced and demand comprehensive compensation from everyone responsible.
Can Adults Sue Over Child Sexual Abuse?
Fortunately, most states have significantly extended filing deadlines for civil lawsuits over sexual misconduct experienced in childhood. If you are currently an adult in San Diego who was sexually assaulted by a church leader as a child, you likely have until your 40th birthday to file a civil suit over that abuse, and an attorney could help you with your case.
Ctate legislators recently abolished the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse claims that occurred or will occur after January 1, 2024. If a clergy member abused you as an adult, state law grants you either 10 years from the date of the most recent act of abuse or three years from your discovery of injury caused by that abuse to file suit. For more information about the timelines involved in filing suit over childhood sexual abuse, schedule a constaultion at The Cifarelli Law Firm.
Contact a San Diego Attorney for Assistance With a Case Involving Child Sexual Misconduct by a Religious Leader
Sexual abuse by members of the clergy has been a widespread and inexcusable global problem for decades. Fortunately, state legislators and law enforcement authorities are beginning to deal with abusers and their enablers within religious organizations. You can take legal action over abuse you or your child experienced from a priest or other religious figure you trusted.
A San Diego clergy child sexual abuse lawyer from our team could review your options and offer preliminary guidance about your case during a confidential consultation. Please schedule yours by contacting us at The Cifarelli Law Firm today.