Here’s How You Can Fight Back Against Clergy Abuse

You’ve seen the triggering news all over the TV, on newspaper headlines, and in magazines. It’s inescapable, and it’s bringing back horrid memories of your past.

That’s because you’ve experienced clergy abuse first hand.

Like many before you, you may have decided not to take action after the incident. But, the tides are changing, and time’s up for abusers everywhere.

Are you ready to have your voice heard and share your story? Are you interested in pursuing justice for the clergy abuse you suffered? Read on to find the empowerment you need to move forward.

Clergy Abuse Is a Crime

Make no mistake about it — clergy abuse is a crime in all 50 states. It’s also a crime in most countries around the globe, too. That’s why organizations like the ECA (Ending Clergy Abuse) Project exist.

One way to seek justice and closure after abuse is to pursue criminal charges against the abuser. This option isn’t always best because the burden of proving the abuse falls on your shoulders.

For some victims, this burden re-traumatizes them. For others, hard evidence isn’t available, and they aren’t able to gain a conviction. Many also wait until the statute of limitations has passed, so charges aren’t an option.

If you’re considering pressing charges, then it’s advised you reach out to an attorney for help.

Should You Consider a Lawsuit?

Regardless of your abuser’s criminal status, you can also pursue civil justice. The burden of proof is much lower in civil court than criminal court.

A person who abuses causes irreparable harm. You likely suffered losses like:

  • Medical bills from physical harm
  • Lost time off of work
  • Emotional distress

A lawsuit can help you recover from these costs with compensation. No amount of money can take away what happened, but compensation can help you move forward.

Are you struggling to gather enough funds for a lawyer? Clergy Sex Abuse Lawsuit Loans can help you fund your case.

Seeking Closure

Abuse is isolating. After you’ve suffered, there’s no “right” way to heal.

Seeking closure is a personal journey that only you can navigate through. For some, it can take years to even acknowledge what happened.

Seeking criminal or civil justice is exhausting. It takes a lot of strength to recover from trauma, and it takes, even more, to advocate for yourself.

Don’t feel pressured to do anything that you don’t feel comfortable with. There are other ways for you to seek justice on a personal level including:

  • Seeking therapy
  • Practicing self-care daily
  • Healing from your trauma
  • Sharing your story with other survivors

Whatever you decide to do, do it for yourself. You didn’t deserve what happened to you, but you do deserve closure.

Seeking Justice After Clergy Abuse

Getting closure and healing from clergy abuse is a life-long process. Trauma has a way of impacting not only the victim but also all the generations that come after.

Use all the resources and support that’s available to help you move forward. You can start your healing process by browsing through our resources on our blog.