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A Deep Betrayal: Sexual Abuse in the Mormon Church
When Faith Becomes a Weapon: Institutional Abuse and Church Leadership
Unfortunately, many survivors report that rather than helping victims or reporting abusers to law enforcement, some church leaders chose to protect the institution’s image. This has left countless victims feeling silenced, invalidated, and alone.
How Abuse and Cover-Ups May Occur in LDS Communities:
- Some church leaders discouraged victims from reporting abuse to law enforcement
- Survivors were sometimes pressured to “forgive” the abuser or keep quiet for the good of the church
- Internal LDS systems, like its “help line,” allegedly prioritized legal protection for the church over victim support
- Some abusers were allowed to remain in leadership or reoffend due to the church’s inaction
Who May Be Held Legally Responsible?
Holding the LDS Church Accountable for Institutional Failures
While individual abusers bear direct responsibility for their actions, Mormon Church sex abuse lawsuits also aim to hold the LDS Church accountable for systemic failures that allowed abuse to occur or continue unchecked.
Why the Church May Be Liable in a Mormon Church Abuse Lawsuit:
- Failing to report known abuse to civil authorities
- Reassigning or protecting known abusers
- Creating a culture of silence and fear that discouraged reporting
- Providing religious authority or trust that abusers used to gain access to victims
Our legal team has experience holding powerful institutions accountable for enabling abuse, and we’re prepared to fight for your rights, too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Mormon Church sexual abuse lawsuit?
A Mormon Church sexual abuse lawsuit is a civil claim survivors may file against the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or its affiliates. These lawsuits aim to hold both abusers and the institution accountable for the harm caused and for systemic failures that allowed abuse to continue.
Who is eligible to file a lawsuit against the LDS Church?
Survivors of abuse connected to the Mormon Church may be eligible to take legal action. In some situations, parents or guardians can file on behalf of a child who was harmed. Even if the abuse happened years ago, survivors may still have legal options depending on their state’s laws.
Can the LDS Church be held responsible for abuse by its leaders or members?
Yes. While abusers are directly responsible for their actions, the Church may also be liable if it failed to report known abuse, reassigned abusers, or created a culture that silenced survivors. Lawsuits focus on both individual wrongdoing and institutional negligence.
What types of compensation are available in a Mormon Church abuse lawsuit?
Lawsuit damages may include compensation for therapy and mental health treatment, medical expenses, lost wages, emotional suffering, and other related losses. The court may award punitive damages meant to prevent future cover-ups. Survivors often seek these resources to support long-term recovery and healing.
How much time do I have to file a Mormon Church sexual abuse lawsuit?
Each state has its own statute of limitations that sets deadlines for filing abuse claims. Some states have extended or lifted these deadlines, giving survivors more time to come forward. An attorney can explain the time limits that apply in your state.
Will I have to go to court if I file a lawsuit against the Mormon Church?
Not always. Many cases involving the Mormon Church are resolved through settlements before trial. If a case does go to court, our compassionate legal team provides survivors guidance and support throughout the process.
The Lingering Impact of Church-Related Sexual Abuse
Abuse in Religious Communities Can Cause Lifelong Harm
The trauma caused by clergy or church-related sexual abuse often goes beyond the physical aspects, leaving survivors with lasting emotional and psychological scars. It may impact every aspect of a survivor’s life, from their relationships and self-worth to their ability to trust or feel safe.
Common Injuries Among Survivors Include:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression
- Loss of faith and spiritual distress
- Self-harm and suicidal thoughts
- Addiction, social withdrawal, or trust issues
- Difficulty with employment or academic performance
- Interpersonal and intimacy challenges
If you or someone you love experienced abuse related to the Mormon Church, our team can help you seek both justice and the resources needed for healing.
Matthew Dolman
Mormon Church Lawsuit Lawyer
Speak With a Mormon Church Sexual Abuse Lawyer Today
Sharing your story about abuse and fighting for your rights is never easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. We are ready to listen without judgment, explain your options, and fight for your right to be heard and believed. Call us today at (866) 608-3533 or complete our secure online form to take the first step.
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Why Choose Our Firm for Your LDS Sexual Abuse Case?
Experienced, Compassionate Legal Representation You Can Trust
At MormonChurchSexAbuseLawsuit.com, we focus exclusively on representing survivors of religious and institutional abuse. We understand the courage it takes to come forward and are here to guide you every step of the way.
What Sets Us Apart:
- Exclusive Focus: We handle institutional abuse cases and understand the unique challenges of taking on big religious institutions.
- Veteran Legal Team: Our attorneys have handled complex abuse litigation nationwide.
- No Win, No Fee: You pay no legal fees unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
- Confidential Support: We handle every case with the utmost sensitivity, respect, and privacy.
Pursuing Compensation for Your Recovery
Your Courage Deserves Support, Healing, and Justice
No amount of money can erase the trauma of sexual abuse, but a civil lawsuit may help you access critical resources like therapy, medical care, and ongoing support. It can also provide a sense of justice and closure.
Damages You Recover Could Include:
- Therapy and mental health treatment costs
- Medical care and future support needs
- Emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Lost wages or future earning capacity
- Punitive damages to deter future institutional negligence