Clergy sexual abuse has had a devastating impact on countless individuals, leaving enduring emotional and psychological scars. This serious issue has plagued communities nationwide, including Arizona.
At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to providing unwavering support and legal advocacy for survivors of clergy abuse. Our commitment to seeking justice and holding an abuser accountable is unwavering, ensuring that survivors receive the support they need to rebuild their lives.
Why Choose Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers
At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we have extensive experience and a proven track record in representing survivors of clergy sexual abuse. Our law firm is not only committed to seeking justice for our clients but also to holding an abuser accountable and ensuring systemic changes to prevent future clergy abuse.
Priest grooming and handling
Deacon assault and rape
Clergy child abuse filed in adulthood
Volunteer-perpetrated Catholic church abuse
Religious school priest teen sexual abuse
Clergy abuse case filed against a deceased priest
By hiring an Arizona clergy abuse attorney from our team, survivors of clergy abuse can be assured of compassionate support, expert legal representation, and a relentless pursuit of justice.
We have extensive experience and a proven track record in handling clergy and child sexual abuse cases, ensuring that victims receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
Our compassionate and dedicated legal team is committed to supporting clients through every step of the legal process, providing the sensitivity and confidentiality required in such deeply personal matters.
With nationwide representation and a wealth of resources at our disposal, we are equipped to take on even the most challenging cases and advocate effectively on behalf of our clients.
What Is Clergy Sexual Abuse?
Clergy abuse refers to any inappropriate sexual conduct or behavior perpetrated by a member of the clergy or other religious authority figures against minors or vulnerable adults. This abuse can include a range of actions from inappropriate touching and sexual assault to rape.
Prevalence of Clergy Sex Abuse in Arizona
Clergy abuse is a pervasive issue that affects countless individuals across Arizona. The problem is widely acknowledged, with numerous cases being reported across various dioceses.
- Diocese of Phoenix, AZ: There are currently more than 25 accused clergy members associated with the Diocese of Phoenix. [1]
- Diocese of Tucson, AZ: There are more than 30 accused clergy members from the Diocese of Tucson. [2] In 2004, the Diocese of Tucson filed for bankruptcy due to the sexual abuse allegations against them. [3]
Clergy abuse is clearly widespread, but on April 11, 2023, the Arizona Supreme Court upheld this privilege by ruling that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can refuse to answer questions or turn over documents if the information was obtained during a confessional setting. [4]
This makes it difficult to know exactly how prevalent clergy sexual abuse is in Arizona, as many cases may go unreported due to this privilege.
Notable Catholic Church Abuse Cases and Accused Priests in Arizona
The state of Arizona has been witness to several high-profile and disturbing cases of priests accused of childhood sexual abuse. Consider the following:
- Father Thomas Purcell: Operated in the Diocese of Tucson, Purcell was accused of sexual conduct with minors spanning several years. He was permanently removed from ministry in the early 2000s. In 2003, he was convicted of sexual abuse against a 13-year-old and sentenced to more than 9 years in prison. [5]
- Father John Doran: In 2020, Father John P. Doran was accused of sexually abusing two boys during the 1970s while they attended the St. Thomas the Apostle Parish. The allegations were brought to light through a lawsuit filed by the now-adult victims, who detailed the abuse they purportedly suffered under Doran’s care. [6]
- Father Joseph John Henn: Father Henn was indicted on multiple counts of child molestation related to his tenure at the Diocese of Phoenix. He fled to Italy, delaying his extradition for several years before being returned to face charges. [7]
Common Forms of Clergy Abuse
Clergy abuse can manifest in various forms, each representing a serious violation of trust and ethical conduct. Common ones include:
- Inappropriate touching and sexual contact
- Sexual harassment
- Grooming
- Rape
- Exploitation of power
Common Signs of Clergy Abuse Among Child Victims
Detecting the signs of priest abuse among child victims requires careful observation and awareness of specific behavioral and emotional indicators. Some common signs include:
- Behavioral changes
- Avoidance of certain individuals
- Regressive behaviors
- Academic issues
- Physical symptoms
- Emotional distress
Who Can File a Clergy Sexual Abuse Claim?
Individuals eligible to file a clergy abuse claim include child victims and their parents, adult victims of abuse or assault, and adult survivors of childhood abuse. Understanding who can legally pursue a claim is essential to pursue justice and seek compensation for the harm endured.
The Statute of Limitations for Filing a Civil Lawsuit in Arizona
In 2019, Governor Doug Ducey of Arizona extended the statute of limitations for filing a child sex abuse civil lawsuit. Victims have until the age of 30. [8] This extension under Arizona law provides individuals who have experienced abuse with additional time to seek justice, even if the abuse occurred years or decades earlier.
Types of Cases Handled by Our Arizona Clergy Abuse Attorneys
Our Arizona child sexual abuse lawyers are experienced in handling a variety of cases involving abuse by religious figures. Abuse can occur in numerous settings, including churches, religious schools, and other institutions governed by spiritual leaders. We undertake cases of abuse by priests, pastors, ministers, and other religious authorities across different denominations.
Specifically, we handle cases involving clergy abuse in Arizona dioceses such as the Diocese of Phoenix and the Diocese of Tucson, as well as cases in other religious communities throughout Arizona.
Arizona Catholic Church Dioceses
Steps to Take if You Are a Victim
Ensuring the safety and well-being of victims of clergy sexual abuse is paramount. Here are crucial steps to take if you are a victim:
- Immediate Safety: If you are in danger, contact local law enforcement or emergency services. Prioritize your safety by seeking help from family, friends, or at a local shelter.
- Document the Abuse: Keep a detailed record of dates, times, places, and witnesses. Preserve any physical evidence and maintain copies of emails or messages that support your case.
- Seek Legal Help: Contact an attorney who specializes in clergy sexual abuse cases.
- Local Resources: In Arizona, organizations like the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence (ACESDV) offer counseling, legal assistance, and support groups for adult and child sex abuse survivors.
How Our Arizona Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawyers Can Help
At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to guiding victims through the legal process of Arizona clergy sexual abuse lawsuits with expertise and compassion. During the initial consultation, we provide a thorough case evaluation to understand your unique circumstances and determine the best course of action. We conduct a meticulous investigation and gather evidence to build a strong case.
Throughout the process, we engage in strategic settlement negotiations, but we are fully prepared to take your case to trial to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
The Cost of Hiring Our Arizona Clergy Sexual Abuse Attorneys
At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront costs. Our fees are only collected if we secure a settlement or win your case at trial, ensuring our focus remains on achieving the best possible outcome for you.
Compensation for Clergy Sexual Abuse Victims
Compensation for clergy sexual abuse victims can encompass various types of damages, including medical expenses for treatment, compensation for emotional distress, and punitive damages intended to punish the perpetrator.
Several factors influence the amount of compensation awarded, such as the severity of the abuse, the long-term impact on the victim’s life, and the evidence available to support the claims.
Contact Our Arizona Clergy Abuse Attorneys Today!
At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to providing many survivors of sexual abuse with the legal support and representation they deserve. Our experienced attorneys understand the profound impact such abuse can have on victims and are committed to holding the responsible parties accountable. We offer compassionate and professional legal counsel to help you navigate this challenging time.
Contact us today for a free consultation and to explore your legal options. Call us at (888) 424-5757 or fill out our online form.
Related Practice Areas
- Arizona Catholic Diocese Priest Abuse List
- Chandler Clergy Abuse Lawyer
- Mesa Clergy Abuse Lawyer
- Phoenix Clergy Abuse Lawyer
- Scottsdale Clergy Abuse Lawyer
- Tucson Clergy Abuse Lawyer
Resources: [1] Diocese of Phoenix, [2], Diocese of Tucson, [3] CBS News, [4] APNews, [5] IL Attorney General, [6] 12 News, [7] AZ Central, [8] 12 News