Abuse in any form is unacceptable, but the perpetuated actions of abuse by clergy is one of the most heinous examples of modern-day exploitation. The impacts on the survivors of these injustices often create long-term challenges in life, ranging from physical, emotional, and neurological to psychological threats. When individuals in positions of power capitalize on their authority over others, accountability must be demanded.
You are not alone if you have suffered clergy abuse in Hartford, and a Hartford sexual abuse lawyer will exhaustively work to provide support and demand the compensation each client deserves. When you work with a clergy abuse lawyer in Hartford at Aeton Law, accountability for the abuse you suffered at the hands of trusted Church officials is our ultimate goal. When you are unsure of where to turn, Aeton Law will provide the navigational tools to reclaim power and healing through compensation from clergy abuse in Hartford.
What a Hartford Clergy Abuse Attorney Will Provide for You
Clergy abuse cases, no matter how much time has passed since the incident, are emotionally triggering situations. They are not only emotionally impactful on the survivor of abuse, but the reaction of a community can range from supportive to demonstrations of disbelief. Having struggled with the potential reactions of others, a survivor deserves the reassurance of support despite the response of those around them.
The role of a Connecticut sexual abuse lawyer is to investigate the facts in an unbiased manner without fear of repercussions from community members and local church authorities. Preservation of any evidence in a Hartford clergy abuse case is imperative to present a staunch, impenetrable account of the evidence required in a civil case to support legal action. It is not uncommon for survivors of clergy abuse to doubt the validity of their claim, and we understand these prevailing thoughts often prevent victims of sexual abuse from ever taking a course of action.
Because time limits are put in place by Connecticut law, Hartford personal injury lawyers from Aeton Law reviews each case for the specific laws that apply and provides a course of action. Ultimately, each client is in control of decision-making as a case progresses. When a case can not be settled out of court, we never hesitate to proceed with a trial in court with our client’s permission.
Compensation in a Hartford Clergy Abuse Claim
Compensation for the damages caused by clergy abuse to individuals under the age of 21 can be sought until the age of 51 (§52-577d) or may not be bound by time limits if a clergy member has prior convictions (§52-577e) of first-degree sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault. Damages that may be available include:
- The cost of medical treatment for physical and psychological injury
- Medication for the treatment of damages
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of relations
- Loss of reputation
Because of the gross negligence and intended misconduct associated with these acts, a Hartford clergy abuse attorney at Aeton Law may pursue punitive damages if your case goes to trial. Punitive damages are not a form of injury compensation but a means of punishment to prevent future acts by other Hartford clergy and call attention to heinous negligence permitting these actions. We are glad to discuss compensation amounts for clergy abuse as they reflect the details of your case.
Why Choose Us
There are many reasons you may need a Hartford personal injury lawyer. However, the circumstances surrounding clergy abuse require a unique approach consisting of compassion, privacy, and determination. Over 50 years of combined experience goes into serving each client using a team perspective to provide the following services:
- Strict adherence to court dates and deadlines
- Open communication about the progress and developments in a case
- The comfort of contact with multiple staff about a case
- A client portal for convenient access to case information
- An honest approach to challenging questions
Aeton Law wants you to choose us for the exceptional service we are known for in the Hartford community. Previous client experiences are the best place to begin understanding the commitment level we offer. And to make our services more accessible, we offer a no-fee guarantee unless we secure the compensation you deserve.
The Toll of Clergy Abuse on Survivors
The damages caused by sexual abuse are so profound they can change structural and functional brain networks, according to a report provided by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). According to the report, clergy abuse can be particularly damaging because of the use of authoritative power to promote a level of trust that provides unlimited access to their victims. One result of the intense trauma is to deny the events occurred until they are ultimately re-lived through memories or surface in various effects, such as:
- Physical effects: chronic and diffuse pain, eating disorders, the potential to abuse drugs or alcohol, depression
- Interpersonal effects: vulnerability to exploitation, the potential for repeated abuse
- Sexual effects: An increase in sexual partners and risky behavior with higher exposure to sexually transmitted infections, gynecologic issues, and disturbances of desire
Many survivors are conditioned to believe it is morally wrong to take action against religious figures of authority and are taught to feel shame because the abuser may be the same sex as the survivor. However, this is never the case. By seeking the help of a clergy abuse attorney in Hartford, it is not only possible to receive the compensation you deserve, but the potential of preventing other abuse while shining a light on the truth about hidden atrocities is possible.
Speak with a Hartford Clergy Abuse Lawyer
Aeton Law understands the sensitivity involved in Hartford clergy abuse cases and strives to provide the most private, supportive assistance possible during times of decision about pursuing legal action.
Not only does this decision impact a client, but it will likely reverberate through local institutions of worship that are sacred to communities. We will openly discuss the impact of this decision and honestly answer your questions to help you make the best personal decision.
Schedule a free consultation and let Aeton Law help you take control of your life and demand accountability. You are not alone in your fight against clergy abuse. And it was never your fault.