Vermont Clergy Abuse Lawyer

Helping Child Sexual Abuse Survivors Hold Abusers Accountable

Clergy sexual abuse is a profoundly traumatic experience with long-lasting impacts on survivors. Injury Lawyer Team offers unwavering support and comprehensive legal assistance to survivors of such behavior. As a Vermont clergy abuse lawyer, we are committed to standing by those affected, ensuring their voices are heard, and justice is pursued.

Injury Lawyer Team is a premier law firm with a distinguished track record in handling clergy sexual abuse cases. Our team of attorneys is deeply committed to advocating for victims and ensuring they receive the justice they deserve.

We bring decades of experience, unparalleled dedication, and a compassionate approach to each case, setting us apart as a trusted ally for those affected by this grievous misconduct. Our firm is committed to holding perpetrators accountable in civil court and providing survivors with the critical support they need on their path to healing.

Choosing Injury Lawyer Team ensures you receive top-notch legal expertise and compassionate support throughout your case. We prioritize maintaining each case’s confidentiality and sensitive handling, ensuring that our clients’ privacy and dignity are protected.

Settlements Recovered by Our Vermont Clergy Abuse Lawyers

• $14,200,000 Recovery for six young men who were groomed and fondled by a Catholic church priest at a religious school. The priest was hired at the school despite a known record of abuse at other parishes.
• $3,000,000 Settlement for a man who was abused as a child. This case was settled during litigation, despite the church’s repeated attempts to dismiss it on the grounds of an expired statute of limitations.
• $2,800,000 Settlement for abuse that occurred at a summer camp operated by Catholic church officials.
• $1,101,000 Settlement for a woman who was sexually assaulted by a janitor at a Catholic School as a child.

What Is Clergy Sexual Abuse?

Clergy sexual abuse takes many forms and refers to all types of sexual misconduct or exploitation perpetrated by a member of the clergy, the Catholic church, or a religious authority. This can include a wide range of inappropriate behaviors, from unwanted advances and grooming to rape. The physical abuse and emotional abuse generally exploit the power and trust inherent in the clergy’s position, making it particularly insidious and damaging to survivors.

What is the Prevalence of Catholic Church Clergy Sex Abuse in Vermont?

In understanding the prevalence of Catholic church clergy sex abuse in Vermont, it is essential to examine both historical data and recent reports to fully grasp the extent of the issue.

• In 2019, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Burlington released a comprehensive list of 40 credibly accused priests. This list was compiled over nine months by a seven-member lay committee, which included a survivor and a non-Catholic member.
• A couple of weeks later, the Society of Saint Edmund, the Catholic order that founded St. Michael’s College, released its own list identifying 10 priests who had worked in Vermont accused of sexually abusing children. 
• These released lists are likely the most comprehensive accounts available regarding clergy abuse in Vermont as of 2019. However, due to the nature of such cases and the challenges often faced by survivors in coming forward, the actual number of child sex abuse incidents probably exceeds those documented.

Are There Notable Clergy Sexual Abuse Cases and Accused Priests in Vermont?

To gain a deeper understanding of the impact and gravity of clergy sexual abuse in the state, it is also helpful to examine some of the most notable cases and the priests accused of abuse in Vermont.

• In one of the most notorious cases, Reverend Edward Paquette faced numerous allegations of sexual abuse during his tenure in Vermont. In 2010, a group of twenty-six former altar boys secured an $18 million settlementafter suing Vermont’s Catholic church over alleged sexual abuse by priests, with a significant focus on former Rev. Edward Paquette. The plaintiffs accused the Burlington Diocese of negligent hiring practices, claiming this allowed Catholic church clergy sex abuse to occur.
• Reverend Alfred Willis was defrocked after allegations emerged that he had sexually abused minors during the late 1970s. His case is particularly significant because of the substantial settlement reached with multiple victims, which highlights systemic failures in addressing such misconduct. 
• In 2020, allegations of sexual abuse were raised against Father Roger Carlin of St. John Vianney Church in South Burlington, claiming he repeatedly molested a nine-year-old altar boy in the 1960s; Carlin has since passed away. 

What are the Common Forms of Clergy Abuse in the Catholic Diocese?

Clergy abuse can manifest in various ways, affecting victims differently based on their circumstances and the nature of the abuse. Common forms include:

• Grooming
• Unwanted advances
• Sexual assault/Rape
• Exploitation of vulnerability
• Cover-up of abuse

What’s the Profile of Sexual Abuse Victims?

While sexual abuse can affect individuals of any age, gender, or background, victims are often young and vulnerable, with many cases involving children or adolescents. These victims who were sexually abused may be seeking guidance, support, or spiritual counseling, often from the Roman Catholic Church. Vulnerable adults are not immune, either.

Consequences and Injuries of Clergy Child Sexual Abuse

Victims who have suffered sexual abuse typically experience long-term consequences, including emotional and psychological trauma, trust issues, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The damage can also extend to their spiritual faith and community relationships, creating a ripple effect that impacts various aspects of their lives.

Common Signs of Clergy Abuse Among Child Victims

Understanding the common signs of childhood sexual abuse is essential for intervention and support. Common signs include:

• Social withdrawal
• Change in behavior
• Academic troubles
• Nightmares and sleep issues
• Reluctance to attend religious activities

Who Can File a Clergy Sexual Abuse Civil Lawsuit?

Individuals eligible to file lawsuits for a clergy sexual abuse claim include child victims and their parents, who can act on their behalf. Additionally, adult victims of abuse or assault, as well as adult survivors who suffered sexual abuse as minors, have the legal right to file a civil lawsuit to seek justice and compensation for the monetary damages suffered.

Understanding liability in clergy abuse cases involves recognizing the legal responsibilities of various parties who may be held accountable for the harm inflicted.

Clergy members can face both criminal charges in the criminal justice system and civil liability for their actions. Criminal charges may include sexual assault or sexual molestation, while a civil action allows survivors to seek monetary compensation for damages. These legal actions are intended to hold the sexual abusers personally accountable for their misconduct.

Religious institutions can also be held responsible for abuse under several legal theories:

• Negligent Hiring or Supervision: Institutions may be liable if they fail to properly vet or supervise a clergy member, thereby allowing abuse to occur.
• Failure to Report Abuse: Institutions can be liable for failing to report abuse they knew or suspected.
• Vicarious Liability: This theory holds institutions accountable for wrongful acts committed by their employees while employed.

The Statute of Limitations for Filing a Lawsuit in Vermont

Under Vermont law, there is no civil statute of limitations for child sexual abuse claims. This means that victims can file a lawsuit at any time against any defendant—no matter when the abuse occurred—including the Catholic Church or other religious institutions. No prior statute of limitations applies.

All childhood sex abuse claims have been permanently revived by the Vermont legislature, allowing survivors to take legal action whenever they are ready.

This statute of limitations, or lack thereof, ensures victims can seek justice against clergy members through a civil lawsuit when they are ready. 

Types of Cases Handled by Our Vermont Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawyers

Our Vermont clergy sexual abuse lawyers are experienced in handling a variety of cases involving church leadership and other clergy members across religious institutions. We address instances of aggravated sexual assault committed by priests, pastors, and other religious leaders in organizations such as the Vermont Catholic Church, Protestant churches, and other religious entities.

We have handled cases involving the church, like the Burlington Diocese and other regions within Vermont. We will take the time to speak with clergy members and determine whether there was a cover-up.

If you are a victim of abuse and considering legal action, taking the right steps can significantly impact the strength and outcome of your case.

• Ensure Personal Safety: Make sure you are in a safe environment away from the abuser. If needed, contact local authorities or emergency services for immediate assistance.
• Record Incidents: Document each incident of abuse by recording details, saving any physical evidence, and preserving electronic communications.
• Gather Witnesses: If there were witnesses to the abuse, such as clergy members, note their names and contact information for future reference, if possible.
• Contact a Lawyer: Reach out to a lawyer experienced in handling abuse cases, like Injury Lawyer Team.

The Diocese of Burlington and Vermont Catholic Charities, Inc. has contracted with a Victim Assistance Coordinator to help bring healing, justice, and peace to those suffering from past abuse. 

Survivors can access additional resources and support through organizations like the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP). 

How Our Vermont Clergy Abuse Attorney Can Help

Our Vermont clergy sexual abuse attorneys provide comprehensive legal support to victims, helping them navigate the complex path to justice and compensation with professionalism and empathy.

Our legal team will carefully review your case, including the details of the abuse, its impact, and any evidence you may have. We will conduct a thorough investigation to gather additional evidence to support your case, such as interviewing clergy members.

Once sufficient evidence is compiled, we will file lawsuits against the responsible parties on your behalf. Possible lawsuit outcomes can include settlements, court awards, or other resolutions that seek to provide you with the maximum compensation possible and hold defendants and the church accountable.

We will strive to achieve a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your suffering and losses. If a settlement cannot be reached, our law office is fully prepared to take your case to trial to help you seek compensation for non-economic damages. 

The Cost of Hiring Our Vermont Clergy Sexual Abuse Attorneys

At Injury Lawyer Team, our law office operates on a contingency fee basis. This means that childhood sexual abuse survivors do not have to pay any upfront fees or out-of-pocket expenses. Our attorneys are paid only if we successfully secure compensation for you. This approach ensures that every survivor has access to quality legal representation without financial barriers.

Compensation for Clergy Sexual Abuse Victims

Victims of clergy sexual abuse may receive several types of damages, including compensation for economic damages like medical expenses and lost wages, non-economic damages like emotional distress, and sometimes punitive damages.

Several factors can influence the amount of compensation awarded to victims of clergy sexual abuse:

• Severity of the abuse
• Impact on quality of life
• Strength of evidence and documentation

If you or a loved one has been a victim of clergy sexual abuse in Vermont, reaching out to our team can be the first step toward justice and healing. Our attorneys at Injury Lawyer Team are ready to provide the expert legal representation and compassionate support you need. We are committed to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Contact our clergy sexual abuse lawyers today to discuss your case and explore your legal options confidentially.

Call us at (888) 424-5757 or fill out our online form.

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.