Your church is supposed to be a safe space—somewhere you can go to heal, support, connect, and find a community. Unfortunately, some people take advantage of this open atmosphere and prey on those who are unable to defend themselves. Sexual abuse within the church is not something anybody wants to talk about, but because it happens so often, it’s something we need to discuss.

Sexual abuse at the hands of clergy members, pastors, ministers, rabbis, priests, and other church officials and members happens across the United States, and all too often, the perpetrators get away with their crimes. Statutes of limitations put time stamps on abuse victims and prevented them from seeking justice, but, thankfully, a recent change in legislation allows victims from decades past to come forward with their cases in order to seek justice from their abusers. If you were the victim of sexual abuse as a child, or if your child was abused make sure you know your legal options.

Let Our Firm Help You

At Silbowitz, Garafola, Silbowitz, Schatz & Frederick, LLP, we know what you’re up against, and we’re here to help. Our firm has secured record jury verdicts on behalf of our clients and we are dedicated to helping each and every one of our clients. Our lead attorney for sexual abuse cases, Attorney Howard Frederick, served as a former prosecutor for the Bronx DA’s office, and as such has experience with cases like these. He has seen hundreds of child sexual abuse cases, and he knows how best to handle these delicate matters in and out of the courtroom. Not only is he passionate about victim’s rights, he also has the knowledge necessary to ensure your voice is heard.

The Catholic Church & Child Sexual Abuse

The Catholic Church has long since been associated with sexual abuse scandals involving bishops, clergy members, priests, and other authorities within their ranks. In the past few years, the church has paid out more than $3 billion in settlements and verdicts to victims who were abused within the church, yet the issue continues.

Recently, church authorities have developed compensation programs in dioceses throughout New York and beyond in order to gather funds to compensate victims who have suffered sexual abuse associated with the Catholic church. Through this new program, survivors are able to receive compensation after a sexual abuse incident, though they must sign a release relinquishing their right to sue the church. If someone qualifies for compensation, the church will determine how much compensation they will receive based on what happened and what type of evidence is available to support the claim. At that point, a review board, which is composed of Catholic citizens who may be psychologists, police officers, and other respected figures, will weigh in.

Contact Silbowitz, Garafola, Silbowitz, Schatz & Frederick, LLP for Help

If you were a victim of child sexual assault by someone belonging to the Catholic church, or if your child was abused, our firm can help you. We understand how emotionally trying these cases can be, and we are here to provide you with the support you need.