Church Abuse ClaimsAttorneys

Church Abuse Claims: Suing a Church for Sexual Abuse

A church abuse claim is a civil lawsuit, or a claim in a diocese bankruptcy, brought by a survivor of sexual abuse by clergy, staff or volunteers of a religious organization. It can name the abuser and the church, diocese or order that hired, supervised or protected them. Many states have extended deadlines for childhood abuse.

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What Is a Church Abuse Claim?

A church abuse claim is a civil legal action brought by a survivor of abuse that occurred within a religious setting, or that was carried out by someone in a position of religious authority. Claims can be brought against the individual perpetrator, the institution, or both.

Types of Abuse Covered

  • Sexual assault or abuse by clergy
  • Grooming by pastors, priests, or ministers
  • Exploitation during pastoral counselling
  • Non-contact sexual misconduct
  • Abuse at religious schools, camps, or youth groups
  • Spiritual coercion combined with sexual acts

Institutional Failures

In many cases the institution itself bears responsibility for:

  • Knowing about abuse and failing to act
  • Dismissing or ignoring survivor reports
  • Relocating perpetrators rather than removing them
  • Pressuring survivors into silence
  • Concealing records and internal investigations
  • Inadequate safeguarding procedures
State Law Notice: Laws governing civil claims for religious institution abuse vary significantly by state. Filing deadlines, lookback windows, and available defendants differ depending on where the abuse occurred and your current state of residence. The information on this page is general in nature. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon without first speaking to a qualified attorney about your specific circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a civil church abuse claim?
A civil church abuse claim is a legal action brought by a survivor of abuse that occurred within a religious setting, or carried out by someone in a position of religious authority. Unlike a criminal case, a civil claim seeks monetary compensation rather than a criminal conviction.
Can I bring a claim even if the abuse was never reported to police?
Yes. Civil and criminal proceedings are separate. You do not need to have made a police report to pursue a civil claim.
What if the church has closed or gone bankrupt?
Claims may still be possible through diocesan bankruptcy trusts, successor organisations, insurance coverage, or against individual perpetrators. Each situation is different.
Is it too late to make a claim?
Many states have extended or removed filing deadlines for childhood sexual abuse claims. Do not assume it is too late without speaking with an attorney.
Who can be sued in a church abuse case?
Claims can be brought against the abuser and the institutions responsible for them, such as the local church, diocese, religious order, denomination, school or camp. Institutions are usually liable for careless hiring, supervision or handling of complaints.
What types of abuse can lead to a church abuse claim?
Most claims involve sexual abuse, assault or grooming of children, but adults who were sexually exploited by clergy or church staff can also have claims. Physical abuse in church-run settings such as schools and group homes can give rise to claims too.
How do I start a church abuse claim?
Start with a free, confidential case review. Share only a brief outline at first, and a lawyer will explain your options and deadlines. You can contact us online or call (202) 934-2954.
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Further Reading

Find Out If You Have a Claim — in Confidence

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  • No legal fees unless compensation is recovered
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  • Filing deadlines apply, so check your options now

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