Sexual abuse by clergy is one of the most profound betrayals of trust a person can endure. In New York, survivors have exposed systemic abuse that stretches across parishes, dioceses, and religious organizations. Many were silenced for years by church officials who prioritized reputation over protection.
Survivors of Abuse NY is committed to seeking justice for those who experienced sexual abuse at the hands of religious leaders. Whether you were abused by a priest in a Catholic parish, a youth minister at a Protestant church, or a religious teacher at a faith-based school, we are here to help.
Forms of Clergy Sexual Misconduct
Clergy abuse can include:
Sexual assault during confession or spiritual counseling
Inappropriate physical contact during religious instruction
Grooming behaviors that blur professional and personal lines
Exploitation of power, guilt, or spiritual authority
Threats of retaliation, public shaming, or exclusion
For many survivors, the abuse was followed by years of silence, mental health struggles, or religious trauma.
Who Is Liable for Clergy Abuse?
In many cases, abuse was not an isolated incident but part of a larger institutional failure. Those who may be liable include:
The individual clergy member
Church officials who ignored or concealed reports
Religious institutions and boards of trustees
Organizations that moved abusers between locations
Our NY clergy sexual abuse law firm helps you uncover records, prior complaints, and institutional misconduct to strengthen your civil claim.
Why Civil Litigation Matters
Civil lawsuits not only provide compensation but force accountability. Survivors can seek:
Payment for therapy, lost income, and trauma
Damages for pain and suffering
Court-ordered transparency or reform
Public recognition of the abuse and its cover-up
