Case Overview
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), also known as the Mormon Church, has been accused of hiding sexual abuse against children by members of the Church. Plaintiffs allege that the LDS Church covered up sexual abuse for decades and didn’t make any efforts to prevent future abuse. Hundreds of people across the U.S. have now come forward with LDS sexual abuse lawsuits and are seeking justice for the alleged trauma and harms they experienced as children.
Key takeaways about LDS church lawsuits
- The LDS Church has come under scrutiny for covering up and dismissing thousands of claims of sexual abuse.
- Plaintiffs allege members of the LDS Church (bishops, church leaders, High Council, etc.) sexually abused them (or had responsibility of those who did) when they were children.
- In some states, lookback window laws have provided opportunities for sexual abuse victims to seek justice.
What is the LDS Church?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) was established in 1830 by Joseph Smith in Fayette, New York. Smith published The Book of Mormon that same year. LDS communities then grew in popularity in states like Ohio, Missouri and Illinois. In 1846, LDS members migrated to the Utah Valley of the Great Salt Lake and continued to build their communities there over time.
Today, the Church is composed of many different types of members. This includes bishops, stake presidents, missionaries, church leaders and other individuals participating in a variety of LDS Church initiatives.
Mormon sexual abuse cases within the LDS Church
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been involved in many claims of childhood sexual abuse spanning decades and involving thousands of children. The statute of limitations windows have opened in multiple states across the country and now provide the opportunity for LDS abuse victims to seek justice.
For example, the California State Courts recently created a Judicial Council Coordination Proceedings (JCCP) for cases against LDS Church members. The Council coordinates the California cases to facilitate pretrial discovery. All LDS lawsuits filed in California have been brought under one judge, which helps move the legal process along more quickly.
The lookback window in California led to nearly 100 LDS sexual abuse allegations accusing members of the LDS Church of sexual abuse. Members accused included spiritual leaders, bishops and LDS home teachers.
Motley Rice attorneys have experience working with survivors of other childhood sexual abuse coverups. Our attorneys are currently accepting LDS sexual abuse claims and continue to advocate for those who have experienced sexual abuse in religious settings.
Contact a child sexual abuse lawyer
We know and understand that sexual abuse is a sensitive issue, and coming forward is difficult in many ways. Know that if you choose to speak with one of our lawyers, we will do everything in our power to protect your identity, if that is a goal.
For more information, contact our team by filling out our online form or call 1.800.768.4026.
The LDS Church’s response to sexual abuse allegations
News stories over the past several years detail how the LDS Church itself played a central role in covering up past abuse and failing to prevent widespread abuse from continuing. Instead of reporting incidents of sexual abuse to law enforcement, the LDS Church encouraged members of the Church to call the Church’s helpline.
The Church said this helpline was established as a source of guidance for victims. We now believe it instead suppressed and dismissed abuse claims. Calling the helpline protected the Church from lawsuits, leaving victims suffering from the effects of childhood sexual abuse. Use of their helpline also allowed known abusers to remain free.
Who is eligible to file a Mormon Church sexual abuse lawsuit?
Individuals who experienced sexual abuse from a member of the Mormon Church may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the LDS Church and others. Your attorney will help collect evidence and build your case. The case should include your account of the abuse, including who was involved and when and where it took place. In some states, you may be able to remain anonymous by filing as a Jane/John Doe.
People harmed as adults and as children are eligible for a Mormon sexual abuse lawsuit if the Church covered up the abuse.
The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit will depend on the state, the extent of abuse and the type of lawsuit you pursue. In some states, newly enacted lookback window laws opened up the opportunity for adults who were victims of child sexual abuse to finally pursue legal action against their abusers.
How Motley Rice can help you file a LDS Church lawsuit
Motley Rice attorneys understand the complexities of these cases to guide you through the legal process with compassion and determination. Our attorneys use a trauma-informed approach to handle sexual abuse cases and aim to reduce distress through every stage of the litigation process.
The purpose of this trauma-informed lawyering approach is to avoid re-traumatizing the client and to give them efficacy in their litigation. Our attorneys partner with the client to help amplify their voice against their abuser and the systems that empowered the abuse. By working closely with the client and understanding their goals, we can tailor our litigation strategy to achieve justice.
We have represented victims of child sex abuse from the Catholic Church, Boy Scouts as well as school teachers.
A Motley Rice sexual abuse attorney can help you:
- Determine your lawsuit eligibility
- Compile all necessary proof of abuse
- Investigate what harms you experienced
- Build your case to include all relevant information
- Litigate on your behalf in court
Frequently asked questions about Mormon sexual abuse lawsuits
What are the statutes of limitations for LDS sexual abuse lawsuits?
A statute of limitations is the limited period of time a potential client has to file a claim. These time limits can change depending on state-specific laws. Lookback window laws have been established in many states, allowing adults who were victims of childhood sexual abuse to file claims no matter how long ago it occurred. Check with the laws in your state regarding the statute of limitations.
Is there a LDS church class action lawsuit?
While there isn’t a class action lawsuit or a multidistrict litigation (MDL) against the LDS Church, there are thousands of individual sexual abuse lawsuits. Consult with an attorney to determine your eligibility for this type of lawsuit.
Will my identity be kept confidential during a sexual abuse lawsuit?
Some states allow sexual abuse plaintiffs to file their lawsuits as Jane or John Doe and remain anonymous. Abuse survivors who would like their identity kept confidential during a sexual abuse lawsuit can discuss this request with their attorney. Our attorneys understand the importance of confidentiality in abuse cases and will take the necessary steps to protect our clients and their identities.
What evidence do I need to pursue a sexual abuse claim against the LDS Church?
Any evidence the victim has to prove the sexual abuse occurred can be used when filing a claim. Evidence may include medical records, witnesses, digital communication and any other proof or reports relevant to the case and the crime.
Our experience advocating for sexual abuse victims
We understand how difficult it may feel to come forward with a sexual abuse lawsuit, which is why we use a trauma-informed lawyering approach to help our clients feel comfortable while navigating this type of litigation. Our law firm has extensive experience representing individuals who have unfortunately been victims of sexual abuse and assault.
This includes lawsuits against:
Key takeaways
What is the LDS Church?
Mormon sexual abuse cases within the LDS Church
Who is eligible to file a Mormon Church sexual abuse lawsuit?
How Motley Rice can help you file a LDS Church lawsuit
Frequently asked questions about Mormon sexual abuse lawsuits
Our experience advocating for sexual abuse victims
About the Author
Alexandra A. Stulpin
Associate
Alexandra Stulpin brings nearly a decade of experience litigating medical, human rights and sexual abuse cases in state and federal courts. She uses a trauma-informed approach throughout every stage of the litigation process when representing victims and survivors.
- Sources
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Organizational Structure of the Church.
- The Guardian. Mormon church rocked by child sexual abuse allegations in California.
- History. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints established.