LDS Church Sexual Abuse Lawsuit FAQs

Sexual abuse within religious institutions has devastating consequences for survivors. Unfortunately, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) has faced increasing allegations of covering up or failing to prevent sexual abuse. Survivors of this abuse often carry trauma for years before stepping forward. In recent years, more victims have come forward to file lawsuits against the LDS Church, seeking justice, accountability, and compensation for the harm they endured.

At Kherkher Garcia, we believe survivors deserve to have their voices heard and their rights protected. This FAQ blog is designed to answer common questions about LDS Church sexual abuse lawsuits, explain legal rights, and provide information about how survivors can pursue justice.

Frequently Asked Questions about LDS Church Sexual Abuse Lawsuits

If you have questions about LDS or other religious-based sexual abuse lawsuits, we want to help. Kherkher Garcia provides a safe and compassionate means of exploring your legal rights and options. Below, we provide answers to some of the most frequently asked questions that we receive.

What are LDS Church sexual abuse lawsuits?

LDS Church sexual abuse lawsuits are legal claims filed by survivors of sexual abuse who allege that the LDS Church failed to prevent, stop, or properly address abuse within its organization. These lawsuits often involve claims that church leaders ignored warning signs, covered up abuse, or protected abusers rather than protecting victims. Survivors pursue these lawsuits to hold the Church accountable and to seek compensation for their physical, emotional, and financial damages.

Who can file a sexual abuse lawsuit against the LDS Church?

Survivors of sexual abuse that occurred within the LDS Church may be eligible to file a lawsuit. This includes settings connected to the Church, such as:

• Youth groups
• Scouting programs
• Church activities

In some cases, parents or guardians may bring claims on behalf of minors. Additionally, some states have passed “lookback window” laws that allow adults who were abused as children to file lawsuits even if the abuse occurred decades ago. Eligibility depends on the details of the abuse and the laws in the state where it occurred, which is why consulting an attorney is crucial.

What kinds of abuse are commonly reported in LDS Church lawsuits?

Lawsuits against the LDS Church have involved a range of misconduct, including:

• Child sexual abuse by church leaders, volunteers, or members.
• Abuse within youth programs like scouting or church camps.
• Abuse that occurred in church-run schools or during church-sponsored activities.
• Cases where leaders failed to report known abuse to authorities.

In many instances, lawsuits claim that abuse was enabled by systemic failures, such as inadequate safeguarding policies, failure to report to law enforcement, or silencing of victims who came forward.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit?

The timeframe to file a sexual abuse lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state. Some states have eliminated the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse claims, while others have extended the time survivors have to file. A growing number of states have also enacted temporary “revival windows,” which allow survivors to file lawsuits even if their claims would otherwise be considered too old. Because these laws change frequently, it is critical to speak with a sexual abuse attorney as soon as possible to determine whether you still have time to file a claim.

What evidence is needed to pursue a case?

Sexual abuse cases can be pursued even if the abuse happened many years ago. Evidence may include:

• Survivor testimony
• Witness statements
• Medical or psychological records
• Church documents or correspondence indicating knowledge of abuse
• Prior complaints against the abuser
• Records of transfers, cover-ups, or lack of reporting

Even if survivors do not have extensive evidence, their testimony is powerful. Attorneys experienced in these cases know how to investigate and uncover supporting evidence to strengthen claims.

What compensation can survivors seek in a lawsuit?

Compensation, or damages, can include both economic and non-economic losses. Survivors of sexual abuse may qualify to recover:

• Medical expenses, including therapy and counseling
• Lost wages or loss of earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and psychological trauma
• Punitive damages designed to punish the institution for wrongdoing

While no amount of money can undo the trauma of abuse, compensation can provide resources for healing. It can also send a powerful message of accountability to the LDS Church.

Do I have to publicly identify myself in order to file a lawsuit?

Many survivors worry about privacy when coming forward. In some cases, survivors can file lawsuits anonymously under a pseudonym such as “Jane Doe” or “John Doe.” Courts may allow anonymity to protect survivors from additional trauma or public exposure. This is particularly likely in cases involving minors. An attorney can help determine whether anonymity is an option in your case and guide you through the process in a way that respects your privacy.

How has the LDS Church responded to sexual abuse allegations?

The LDS Church has publicly stated that it condemns abuse and has policies in place for reporting and preventing it. However, numerous lawsuits and investigative reports have alleged that church leaders ignore reports of abuse, discourage victims from going to law enforcement, or fail to remove known abusers from positions of authority. These cases argue that systemic failures allow abuse to continue, placing vulnerable members at risk.

What role does an attorney play in these cases?

An attorney experienced in religious-based sexual abuse litigation plays a critical role in protecting survivors. An attorney can:

• Evaluate whether you have a valid claim
• Explain the laws that apply in your state
• Investigate and gather evidence to support your case
• File the lawsuit and handle negotiations with the LDS Church or its insurers
• Advocate for your rights in court if necessary

Most importantly, a skilled attorney provides compassionate support while aggressively fighting for justice and accountability.

What should I do if I was abused in the LDS Church?

If you are a survivor of sexual abuse connected to the LDS Church, you should consider the following steps:

1. Ensure your immediate safety and well-being.
2. Seek medical or psychological care from trusted providers.
3. Report the abuse to law enforcement if you feel comfortable.
4. Reach out to a sexual abuse attorney to discuss your legal options.

You are not alone. Many survivors carry their pain in silence for years, but coming forward can be an important step toward healing and justice.

Will filing a lawsuit retraumatize me?

It’s natural to worry that pursuing legal action might bring up painful memories. However, many survivors find empowerment in telling their story and holding institutions accountable. Attorneys who handle sexual abuse cases know what it takes to ensure the process is survivor-focused and supportive. Legal teams can often accommodate survivors’ needs, such as flexible communication or limiting court appearances, to minimize retraumatization.

How much does it cost to hire a sexual abuse attorney?

Most sexual abuse attorneys, including Kherkher Garcia, represent survivors on a contingency fee basis. This means survivors pay nothing upfront. Instead, the attorney’s fees are paid as a percentage of any settlement or verdict. If no compensation is recovered, you owe nothing. This ensures survivors have access to justice without financial barriers.

Get the Compassionate Legal Care You Need

If you or someone you love experienced sexual abuse within the LDS Church, you deserve justice. The attorneys at Kherkher Garcia are committed to standing with survivors and fighting to hold institutions accountable. We provide compassionate legal representation while aggressively pursuing the compensation you deserve.

Contact Kherkher Garcia today for a free, confidential consultation. Your story matters, and we are here to help you take the first step toward healing and justice. Call us now to get started at 713-333-1030. Or, complete our online contact form to request more information.

Image by Freepik