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You placed your faith in your church, a place that should have been a sanctuary, a refuge from the dangers of the world. You trusted its leaders to guide you, protect you, and keep you safe from harm. But instead of safeguarding that trust, they exploited it. They failed you in the most profound way, betraying not just your confidence, but your sense of safety and dignity.
Now, the pain you carry is not just from the harm you endured, but from knowing it was done by those you believed would protect you. That betrayal demands accountability. You have the right to be heard. You have the right to seek the truth. And above all, you deserve justice. A church sexual assault lawyer in Los Angeles can seek that justice for you.
Call The Goldwater Law Firm to connect with a sexual assault attorney near you today.
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A Lawyer Can Help You Hold Your Abuser and the Church Liable for Your Harm
When you’ve suffered abuse at the hands of a trusted institution like a church, the path to justice can feel overwhelming. An experienced lawyer can guide you through each step, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are protected. Here’s what a lawyer can do for you:
- Provide a safe, confidential space for you to share your story without judgment.
- Protect you from the other party.
- Review the facts, timelines, and evidence to determine the strongest legal strategy for your case.
- Gather records, documents, witness statements, and expert testimony to build a compelling case.
- Identify not only the abuser but also the church or institution that enabled the abuse. This is especially true if there is a documented cover-up, which has been unfortunately common in these cases.
- Navigate complex laws, including statutes of limitations, lookback windows, and survivor protection laws in your state.
- Negotiate aggressively to secure a settlement that reflects the full scope of your suffering and damages.
- Take your case to court and fight for justice before a judge and jury.
- Keep you informed, supported, and empowered at every stage of the process.
With an advocate on your side, you won’t have to face your abuser or the institution alone.
Need a Church Sexual Assault Lawyer in Los Angeles?
Two Decades of Trusted Advocacy
For over 20 years, our firm has stood beside survivors, guiding them through some of the most challenging chapters of their lives. We understand the courage it takes to come forward, and we’ve built our reputation on providing compassionate, competent representation to those seeking justice.
No matter where you live, we can help connect you with a trusted law firm in your area, one that shares our commitment to holding wrongdoers accountable and protecting survivors’ rights. Our network ensures you have an experienced advocate who understands your state’s laws and will fight for the outcome you deserve.
You Can Get the Help You Deserve for No Upfront Costs
We believe that justice should never be out of reach because of financial barriers. You’ve already had far too much taken from you—your trust, safety, and peace of mind. You shouldn’t have to drain your savings just to hold those responsible accountable. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront and no attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Our priority is fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve, without adding to your burdens.
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Frequently Asked Questions
California recognizes that the effects of childhood sexual abuse can last a lifetime, and it can take decades to understand the abuse that occurred. To ensure that survivors have the time they need to take action, the state eliminated the statute of limitations on child sexual abuse lawsuits, per CIV § 340.1. This means that survivors can seek justice several decades after their abuse occurred. However, this law change only applies to abuse that occurred on January 1, 2024, or later.
For abuse that occurred before 2024, survivors have until their 40th birthday or until five years after discovering the “impact of their experience.” This can complicate matters. We recommend calling us to determine whether you are able to seek justice.
Yes. In October 2024, clergy abuse survivors reached a settlement with the Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles for approximately $880 million, according to CBS News. Around 1,300 survivors will share the settlement. NPR reports that this brings the total amount paid in settlements and awards by the LA Archdiocese to nearly $1.5 billion. In 2007, the Archdiocese settled with about 500 survivors for $660 million.
Survivors of sexual assault by clergy or church-affiliated individuals in California may pursue a range of civil damages. These aim to address both tangible and intangible harms, and may include:
Economic (Compensatory) Damages
- Medical Expenses: Reimbursement for past, present, and future healthcare needs, including therapy, counseling, and any specialized treatment required due to the abuse
- Lost Income and Benefits: Compensation for wages and employment benefits lost as a result of the survivor’s psychological or physical injuries
- Future Care Costs: The costs of long-term or lifelong support
Non-Economic (General) Damages
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, trauma, and mental anguish stemming from the abuse
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Acknowledgement of how the abuse has diminished the survivor’s ability to participate in or enjoy life activities fully
- Loss of Consortium: Harm to familial relationships and companionship
Yes, you can remain anonymous if you file a clergy sex abuse case. Let your attorney know you want to remain anonymous, and they can handle the process on your behalf.
Let Us See How We Can Help You Today
If you’re a survivor of church sexual abuse in Los Angeles, please know that your bravery in coming forward matters. We understand the fear and pain, and we are here to help you hold your abuser and the institution that failed to protect you accountable. You deserve justice, healing, and support. Call The Goldwater Law Firm today to speak with someone who understands and can help you begin the path forward.