Due to the increasing cases of clergy abuse, the system has improved its support to help the victims of such ordeals. Today, you can safely tell the story without the fear of being criminalized. Furthermore, the Catholic Church is taking different measures and responsibility to put the abusive clergies to light. So, if you suffer from priest abuse, it is crucial to know what to do to get justice. Here are vital steps you should take after clergy abuse.
Get a Priest Abuse Lawyer
If you or your dear one has suffered from clergy sexual abuse, it is advisable to get a New York priest sexual abuse lawyer. The professional will take you through the complicated legal process or religious institutions. Even though the system has been upgraded and made simpler for sexual abuse victims, it is still not easy if you go alone. Therefore, it is best to have a lawyer by your side.
Apart from taking you through the complicated legal process, the lawyer will also ensure you get compensated. Many Catholic Churches have declared themselves bankrupt to avoid settling the payments. That means getting the right compensation can be quite difficult. However, a priest abuse lawyer will work on the case and ensure you get the compensation.
Report the Abuse
One important thing you should do if you or your dear one is sexually abused by a priest is to seek medical help. This is a crucial step that ensures you are in good health both physically and mentally. The other thing you need after suffering from priest abuse is to report the incident. Reporting n abuse is a bold step that the victim must take courageously. There are feelings of guilt, doubt, anger, and despair and this is why many cases end up unreported. This makes it difficult for law enforcers to act. So, it is crucial to report the incident no matter how hard it is.
One thing you need to know is that reporting the issue gives you and your family the relief you need to concentrate on the case. However, you need to know the statute of limitations surrounding priest abuse cases. This is the legal time within which you should report the abuse. Once this time passes, your claim cannot be considered viable. This time depends on where you live and when the abuse took place. So, know the statute of limitations in your state so that it will not be too late for you.
The Possible Compensation
When you file a lawsuit against an abusive priest, the main aim is to get compensated. The compensation will help you cover various expenses derived from the incident, such as medical care, pain and suffering, and mental health services. Your lawyer will help you see the eligible compensations and how much money to expect.
Contact the Experts
Dealing with a sexual abuse case can be hard for you and your family. Therefore, it is crucial to get the right support you need. Contact a priest sexual abuse lawyer to help you through the legal case.