Michigan Clergy Abuse Lawyer

Clergy sexual abuse is a deeply troubling issue, causing lasting distress for countless survivors and leading to lifelong challenges. At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we are committed to supporting Michigan survivors. Our experienced team provides compassionate legal representation to ensure survivors receive justice and closure. 

Why Choose Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we specialize in handling complex clergy abuse cases, leveraging our extensive legal expertise to navigate the unique challenges these cases present. 

Our experienced attorneys are skilled at addressing issues such as repressed memories and statute of limitations defenses, ensuring that every aspect of your case is meticulously examined and argued.

The Map Of Michigan Diocese

What Is Clergy Sexual Abuse?

Clergy sexual abuse involves any inappropriate sexual misconduct made by a clergy member towards a parishioner or subordinate. This can encompass a wide range of actions, including, but not limited to, inappropriate touching, sexual harassment, coercion into sexual acts, and rape. 

Prevalence of Clergy Sex Abuse in Michigan

The prevalence of clergy sexual abuse in Michigan highlights a critical issue that requires both awareness and action. A detailed two-year examination by the Michigan Attorney General’s Office brought significant findings to light. [1]

• Accusations and Victims: The investigation by the Michigan Attorney General identified 454 priests accused of abuse and 811 victims affected by these abhorrent actions.
• Legal Actions: So far, approximately 9 clergymen have been charged and convicted. 
• Document Seizures: Authorities seized 220 boxes of paper documents and over 3.5 million digital documents from all seven of Michigan’s Catholic church dioceses.

Notable Clergy Sexual Abuse Cases and Accused Priests in Michigan

Several notable clergy sex abuse cases in Michigan have drawn coverage over the years and underscored the need for systemic change within religious institutions.

• Father Robert J. DeLand: Convicted in 2019, DeLand was a priest in the Diocese of Saginaw. He was sentenced to 2 to 15 years in prison after pleading no contest to second-degree criminal sexual conduct and gross indecency.
• Father Vincent DeLorenzo: Formerly a priest in the Diocese of Lansing, DeLorenzo faced multiple charges of criminal sexual conduct in 2019. He was accused of sexually abusing minors over several decades, with allegations spanning from the mid-1980s to the early 2000s.[2]
• Father Patrick Casey: A priest in the Archdiocese of Detroit, Casey was sentenced in 2019 to 45 days in jail for an inappropriate sexual relationship with a grieving man he was counseling. [3]

Father Timothy Murray: Previously serving in the Diocese of Grand Rapids, Murray was charged with multiple counts of criminal sexual conduct regarding incidents that occurred in the 1980s. In 2014, he was sentenced to more than 15 years in federal prison. [4]

Common Forms of Clergy Abuse

One of the most distressing aspects of clergy abuse is the variety of forms it can take. Some of the most common include:

• Inappropriate Touching
• Sexual Harassment
• Rape
• Emotional Manipulation
• Child Grooming

The Profile of Clergy Sexual Abuse Victims

While anyone can fall prey to such abuse, certain profiles tend to be more common:

• Children and Adolescents
• Adults in Emotional Distress
• Devout Followers

Victims of clergy sex abuse typically suffer a range of consequences, including, but not limited to:

• Psychological trauma
• Trust issues
• Guilt and shame
• Physical injuries
• Spiritual crisis

Common Signs of Clergy Abuse Among Child Victims

Identifying the signs of clergy abuse among child victims is essential for timely intervention and support. Here are common indicators:

• Sudden changes in behavior
• Decline in academic performance
• Regressive behaviors
• Fear of certain places or people
• Physical symptoms
• Sleep disturbances
• Secrecy and isolation

Who Can File a Clergy Sexual Abuse Claim in Michigan?

Individuals eligible to file a clergy sex abuse claim generally include:

• Child victims, with the help of their legal guardians, have the right to pursue legal action for the harm suffered.
• Adults who have experienced such misconduct by clergy members can file a civil lawsuit to seek compensation and justice.
• Adults who were sexually abused as minors can also file clergy sexual abuse claims, recognizing the lasting impact and delayed reporting often associated with such abusive acts.

Liability in Clergy Abuse Cases

Determining liability in clergy abuse cases involves examining various factors to establish who is legally responsible for the abusive acts.

Individual Liability

• Criminal Charges: Clergy members who engage in abusive, harmful, or inappropriate behavior may face criminal charges, including sexual assault and other related offenses.
• Civil Liability: In addition to criminal charges, clergy members can be held civilly liable for the harm they cause. Victims may pursue lawsuits seeking financial compensation for damages suffered due to the abuse.

Institutional Liability

• Negligent Hiring or Supervision: Religious institutions can be held accountable for failing to properly vet or supervise clergy members, leading to instances of abuse.
• Failure to Report Abuse: Institutions that neglect to report known or suspected abuse to the appropriate authorities can be held legally responsible.
• Vicarious Liability: Under this theory, institutions can be held liable for the actions of their employees if it is proven that the abusive behavior occurred within the scope of their duties.

Proving a connection between the institution’s actions or inactions and the abuse is essential in these cases. Establishing this link is critical for holding institutions accountable and ensuring justice for victims.

The Statute of Limitations for Filing a Lawsuit in Michigan

Under Michigan law, victims can file a child sexual abuse case up until they reach the age of 28.

In 2018, the state implemented an important legislative change to further support survivors, adopting a three-year statutory discovery rule. This rule permits the filing of lawsuits within three years from the date the victim discovers or reasonably should have discovered, the injury and its causal relationship to the criminal sexual conduct, even if the victim is past the age of 28.

Types of Cases Handled by Our Michigan Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawyers

Our Michigan clergy sex abuse lawyers handle a wide range of cases to ensure survivors receive justice. We address abuse by individuals in various religious roles, including Catholic priests, pastors, ministers, and other clergy members. Our firm deals with many religious institutions, such as the Catholic Church and Protestant churches. 

We have significant experience dealing with Michigan dioceses, including the Archdiocese of Detroit and the Diocese of Gaylord. 

Steps to Take if You Are a Victim

If you are a victim of clergy sex abuse, immediate steps should be taken to ensure your safety and well-being. It is crucial to seek a safe environment and access medical care if necessary. Documenting the abuse is essential for building your case. 

Seeking legal help is the next critical step; consult with an experienced attorney to understand your rights and the legal process. During this time, you will receive guidance on what to expect, from filing civil lawsuits to what will happen in court proceedings if it gets to that point.

For those who have faced sexual abuse in Michigan, several resources are available to offer support and assistance, such as First Step, the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), and the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Michigan.

How Our Michigan Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawyers Can Help

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we have unmatched experience and a track record of success in handling clergy sex abuse cases. Our compassionate and dedicated legal team is committed to supporting survivors with the utmost sensitivity and confidentiality. With nationwide representation and extensive resources, we ensure that our clients receive the best possible legal assistance no matter where they are located.

Our Michigan sexual abuse lawyers offer comprehensive support, starting with an initial consultation and case evaluation, where we assess the merits of your case. We conduct thorough investigations and gather critical evidence to build a strong legal argument. Once we file your clergy sexual abuse claim, we guide you through potential outcomes, including settlement negotiations and the trial process. 

The Cost of Hiring Our Michigan Clergy Sexual Abuse Attorneys

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we understand the financial burden that legal cases can impose, which is why we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you will not incur any upfront costs to hire a clergy sexual abuse lawyer from our team, and we will only collect a fee if we successfully secure a settlement or verdict on your behalf. 

Our priority is to make legal representation accessible to all survivors, ensuring that financial constraints do not impede your pursuit of justice.

Compensation for Clergy Sexual Abuse Victims

Victims of clergy sexual abuse may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including current and future medical expenses, emotional distress, and punitive damages. The amount of compensation is influenced by factors such as the severity of abuse, the impact on the victim’s life, and the strength of the evidence presented. 

Example Settlements

Our commitment to securing justice for survivors of clergy abuse is reflected in our impressive track record of successful settlements and arbitration awards. Notable cases include:

Contact Our Michigan Clergy Abuse Attorneys Today!

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to advocating for the rights of clergy sexual abuse survivors in Michigan. Our experienced and compassionate team is equipped to provide the legal expertise and support necessary to pursue justice against Catholic clergy, holding the church accountable for inappropriate sexual contact. If you or a loved one have been impacted by clergy sexual abuse, do not hesitate to reach out. 

Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation by filling out our online form or calling us at (888) 424-5757.

Related Practice Areas

• Michigan Catholic Diocese Priest Abuse List
• Ann Arbor Clergy Abuse Lawyer
• Detroit Clergy Abuse Lawyer
• Grand Rapids Clergy Abuse Lawyer
• Sterling Heights Clergy Abuse Lawyer
• Warren Clergy Abuse Lawyer

Resources: [1] MLive, [2] Michigan.gov, [3] Detroit Free Press, [4] USA Today