Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about our current and past experience representing survivors of clergy abuse. We can answer all of your questions confidentially at (1-855-223-1546) or by e-mailing us here.
Q. How can I protect my privacy?
A. You will not be identified by name. We have helped survivors pursue claims in several clergy bankruptcy cases. In each of those cases, the claims have been extremely confidential. There is no public identification of survivors’ identities, and everyone involved in the case has been under a very strict court order to maintain the highest degree of confidentiality.
Q. Does the filing of a bankruptcy mean the Archdiocese has no money to pay claims?
A. No. The Milwaukee Archdiocese is only the latest in a string of Catholic dioceses and religious orders to seek bankruptcy protection. We have prosecuted claims for survivors in several of these bankruptcies. In each case, survivors have ultimately received significant settlement payments and achieved other valuable forms of justice and accountability for the harm they have endured.
Q. Why are survivors under such a strict deadline to file claims?
A. One of the main reasons the Milwaukee Archdiocese declared bankruptcy was to obtain a “Claims Bar Date” from the court. This is a court-ordered deadline for survivors to obtain justice and hold the wrongdoers accountable. It will likely be too late for anyone who misses this upcoming deadline. The time is now for the filing of a claim through an attorney.
Q. How do I pay an attorney to help me?
A. We have successfully represented hundreds of survivors under a “contingency fee” arrangement. That is, we will work for you without pay until you receive compensation for your claim. We then receive a minority percentage of that settlement or verdict. We will also advance all of the out of pocket costs for pursuing your claim, with reimbursement of those costs at the end of the case.