Some cases of sexual abuse, including the abuse of children, come from those most trusted by those they abuse. People in positions of authority, including clergy members, sometimes seek those positions to gain access to vulnerable people.
Clergy members may take advantage of those going through social isolation or moral distress to initiate questionable relationships. They may also attempt to groom young people involved with the church so that their inappropriate sexual overtures do not seem like a boundary violation.
What rights do people have when clergy members use their access and perceived morality to engage in abusive conduct?
Religious organizations may be liable
Churches and other religious organizations should perform careful screening to ensure those given access to and social authority over others do not abuse that power. These organizations may not adequately vet those seeking positions, which may lead to some people abusing that authority.
Legal standards generally make employers liable for the negligence and misconduct of workers while they are on the job. Taking legal action against the church or organization involved may be an option — particularly in cases where there are records validating that people brought concerns to the attention of those in charge, but leadership attempted to hide the issue instead of addressing it.
In cases where clergy members have minimal personal property or may have already died, the only path to justice may be to take action against the religious organization. If the organization contributed to the abuse through negligent hiring practices or acted to cover it up instead of addressing the matter thoroughly through the legal system, it may be liable for the harm caused.
Filing a lawsuit is a potentially viable response to a case of clergy sexual abuse. Documenting what occurred and discussing the matter with a legal professional can help survivors and their families understand and assert their rights.