Top 3 Signs You Should Call a Clergy Abuse Attorney

For decades, people suffered and hid the dirty little secret of abuse at the hands of church officials. Today, the curtain has been pulled back.

In the 2018-2019 audit of alleged sex abuse by Catholic clergy, the total reached 4,434 cases. This number is three times more than the previous year’s audit.

So, what choices do the victims have? The answer is to speak with a clergy abuse attorney. Keep reading to learn about the signs to look for among victims of abuse.

California Law Related to Clergy Abuse

For decades, California has followed established laws addressing sexual abuse. Yet, there was a statute of limitations for when a victim could file a complaint.

During the 1950s to 1970s, there was a peak in abuse by clergy on their parishioners. Complaints continued over the years. Most of the victims were children or young teens.

Due to the statute of limitations, many victims who wanted to file complaints were unable to. Thus, in 2019, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a law AB 218. This increased the age limit for victims of clergy or other church-affiliated abuse.

Starting in January 2020, adults who were abused at a young age can now seek justice.

How to Decide if You Should Call an Attorney

If you’re an adult who was the victim of an assault by a member of the clergy, you may still suffer. Many parents also feel concerned about their children experiencing clergy abuse.

The following describes signs to watch for in yourself or your child. If you answer yes to any of these questions, it may signal the need to contact an attorney.

1. Do You or Your Child Have Thoughts About Committing Suicide?

A 2020 article in APA PsychNet® examined the relationship between suicidality and assault. They found that 27.25 percent of those who had suffered an assault had suicidal thoughts. This is significantly higher than the 9.37 percent rate among those not assaulted.

2. Have You or Your Child Become Less Interested in Usual Activities?

Abuse is often perpetrated by a trusted adult, such as a member of the clergy. The impact may appear during the time of ongoing abuse. Psychological effects can even extend into adulthood.

Those close to the victim may notice a loss of interest in favorite activities. They often become more withdrawn and decrease social interaction.

3. Have You or Your Child Abused Someone Else Following Your Assault?

For children, abusers often tell them that the activity is okay. They’re told not to worry or tell anyone else because this is special. As a result, the child may abuse another child in the same manner.

If you’re an adult, did you abuse other children when you were young? Does this haunt you?

How Can a Clergy Abuse Attorney Help You?

Whether you were the victim or you suspect that your child may be a victim, it’s time to get help. The problem is now greatly publicized, and the churches are no longer keeping silent.

You will not be alone. Today, thousands of clergy abuse victims have received justice and compensation. Seek out an experienced clergy abuse attorney and get more information.

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