Naperville Clergy Abuse Lawyer

Clergy sexual abuse is a profoundly troubling issue that can have severe and lasting impacts on survivors, both emotionally and physically. At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we are deeply committed to supporting those who have endured such betrayal by providing compassionate legal assistance and advocating for justice.

Our team is dedicated to helping survivors within our community navigate the complexities of their cases with care and determination. For help with a clergy sexual abuse case, contact us to schedule a free consultation with a Naperville clergy abuse lawyer.

Why Choose Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers

When navigating clergy sexual abuse cases, having the right legal team is crucial. At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we have vast experience and a strong track record in handling clergy sexual abuse cases, achieving significant settlements for survivors.

• $14,200,000 – Priest grooming and handling
• $4,100,000 – Deacon assault and rape
• $3,000,000 – Clergy child abuse filed in adulthood
• $2,475,000 – Volunteer-perpetrated Catholic church abuse
• $2,250,000 – Religious school priest teen sexual abuse
• $1,500,000 – Clergy abuse case filed against a deceased priest

Our lawyers provide empathetic and respectful representation, understanding the unique challenges faced by survivors. We ensure complete confidentiality and a sensitive approach throughout your legal journey.

Understanding Clergy Sex Abuse in Naperville

Clergy sexual abuse refers to any form of sexual misconduct, exploitation, or assault perpetrated by a religious leader or clergy member. This troubling act involves the misuse of power and authority within a religious setting to exploit vulnerable individuals. Such abuse has profound emotional, psychological, and sometimes physical impacts on survivors.

The Illinois AG report documents 69 priest abuse cases in the Diocese of Joliet, covering Naperville. [1]

The information below highlights some of the most notable cases and the clergy members accused in Naperville, providing a clearer understanding of the scope and severity of the issue.

• Alejandro Flores, Diocese of Joliet, IL: After allegations of abusing a 13-year-old boy, Flores attempted suicide and was removed from First Family. He faced further charges for attempted abuse of the victim’s sibling and was sentenced to four years in prison. [2]
• Frederick A. Lenczycki, Diocese of Joliet, IL: Removed from ministry in 2002, he pleaded guilty in 2004 to abusing three boys and received a five-year sentence. Lenczycki admitted to molesting up to 30 boys over a 25-year span. [3]
• John C. Slown, Diocese of Joliet, IL: Diocesan files indicate Slown abused at least 20 children. Convicted of molesting a boy in 1983, he was sent for treatment, reassigned, and eventually removed from ministry. Slown passed away in 2022. [4]

Common Forms of Clergy Abuse

Understanding the various forms that clergy abuse can take is crucial in recognizing its prevalence and providing adequate support for survivors. Some common forms include:

• Sexual assault and molestation
• Sexual harassment
• Child sexual abuse
• Grooming

Common Signs of Clergy Abuse Among Child Victims

Identifying the common signs of clergy abuse among child victims is essential so responsible adults can provide intervention and support. Common signs include:

• Behavioral changes
• Academic decline
• Sleep disturbances
• Physical complaints
• Sexualized behavior
• Regressive actions
• Trust issues
• Secretive conduct

Eligibility to File a Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawsuit

If you or a loved child were subjected to sexual abuse by clergy, it’s important to understand who is eligible to pursue justice through the legal system. Children who are victims of abuse have the right to initiate a civil lawsuit with the help of their parents against those responsible.

Additionally, adults who experienced these appalling acts can seek legal recourse as well. Finally, adult survivors who endured childhood sexual abuse as minors may possess the legal standing to file sexual abuse claims.

Liability in Clergy Abuse Cases

In clergy abuse cases, both individuals and religious institutions can be held liable for adult and childhood sexual abuse. Accused clergy members may face a criminal case, potentially leading to imprisonment and civil claims for economic and non-economic damages.

A religious institution could be held accountable due to negligent hiring, supervision, failure to report abuse, or vicarious liability. To fully understand the complexities of these liabilities and explore your legal options, contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers.

The Statute of Limitations for Filing a Lawsuit in Naperville

Illinois state law has eliminated the statute of limitations for civil cases involving child sex abuse. This means that no matter how much time has passed since the offense occurred when they were minors, victims of childhood sexual abuse have an opportunity to take action against their sexual abusers.

Types of Cases Handled by Our Naperville Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawyers

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we specialize in representing those sexually abused by priests, pastors, and other religious leaders across various denominations and religious organizations.

We handle cases involving abuse in the Catholic Church, Protestant churches, and other religious settings. Specifically, we address cases in dioceses such as the Diocese of Joliet in Illinois, ensuring that affected individuals in Naperville and surrounding areas receive the justice and support they deserve.

Steps to Take if You Are a Victim

If you are a victim of clergy sexual abuse in Naperville, IL, immediate steps are crucial for your safety and well-being.

• Remove yourself from any immediate danger.
• Document the clergy member sexual abuse with detailed records, including dates, descriptions, and any evidence.
• Contact a law firm specializing in clergy abuse to understand your rights.

Naperville abuse survivors can access support through local organizations like the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault (ICASA) [5] and Resilience. [6] These organizations offer resources and support groups to help victims.

How Our Naperville Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawyers Can Help

When you reach out to Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we start with a confidential initial consultation and case evaluation to understand your situation. Our team investigates thoroughly, gathering evidence to highlight misconduct and any institutional negligence.

Equipped with this information, we help you file a lawsuit aimed at justice and financial compensation for damages. Throughout each phase—from settlement negotiations to trial—we stand by your side, committed to seeking appropriate remedies for your suffering.

The Cost of Hiring Our Naperville Clergy Sexual Abuse Attorneys

Hiring Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers won’t add to your financial burden because we operate on a contingency fee basis. This approach means that you do not pay upfront fees or hourly rates. Instead, our compensation is contingent upon successfully resolving your case, either through settlement or trial. If we don’t achieve a financial recovery on your behalf, you owe our law firm nothing.

Compensation for Clergy Sexual Abuse Victims

Victims of sexual abuse may be entitled to various forms of compensation to help address the profound impacts of the abuse. Types of compensation most often include:

• Medical expenses and lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Punitive damages

Several factors influence the amount of compensation a victim may receive in a clergy sexual assault case, including the severity and duration of the abuse, the long-term impact on the victim’s mental and physical health, and the strength of the evidence presented.

Contact Our Naperville Clergy Abuse Attorneys Today!

If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse, it is crucial to take prompt and decisive legal action. Our Naperville, Illinois clergy abuse attorneys are here to listen to your story, assess the details of your case, and offer experienced guidance.

Fill out our online form or call us at (888) 424-5757.

Related Practice Areas

• Illinois Catholic Diocese Priest Abuse List
• Illinois Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawyer
• Aurora Clergy Abuse Lawyer
• Chicago Clergy Abuse Lawyer
• Joliet Clergy Abuse Lawyer
• Rockford Clergy Abuse Lawyer

Related Practice Areas

• Naperville Personal Injury Lawyer
• Naperville Rideshare Accident Lawyer
• Naperville Sexual Abuse Lawyer
• Naperville Slip and Fall Lawyer
• Naperville Truck Accident Lawyer
• Naperville Uber Accident Lawyer
• Naperville Bicycle Accident Lawyer
• Naperville Car Accident Lawyer
• Naperville Lyft Accident Lawyer
• Naperville Medical Malpractice Lawyer
• Naperville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Resources: [1] Illinois AG Report, [2] Illinois Attorney General, [3] Illinois Attorney General, [4] Illinois Attorney General, [5] ICASA, [6] Resilience

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.