Philadelphia Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawyers | PA & NJ
Clergy sexual abuse is a devastating betrayal of trust that can leave deep, lasting trauma. For decades, survivors have been silenced by fear, shame, or institutional cover-ups. At Edelstein Law, we stand with survivors of clergy abuse and fight to hold religious institutions accountable — no matter how powerful they are.
We represent individuals throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey who were abused by priests, ministers, rabbis, or other religious leaders in churches, temples, schools, and affiliated organizations. Whether the abuse occurred decades ago or more recently, we are here to help you seek justice on your terms.
Survivor’s Rights, Understanding, & Our Fight for Justice
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Understanding Clergy Sexual Abuse & Legal Claims
Sexual abuse by clergy members often occurs in environments where children or vulnerable individuals are encouraged to trust and obey religious authority figures. Many religious institutions failed to act on reports of abuse or actively covered them up — creating widespread patterns of institutional negligence.
Civil lawsuits against clergy and religious organizations can:
- Expose patterns of abuse and systemic failures
- Secure financial compensation for emotional and psychological trauma
- Help prevent further abuse by driving institutional reform
- Empower survivors to reclaim their story and dignity
Survivors have every right to seek justice. You are not alone, and it is not too late.
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Who Can be Held Accountable?
Clergy abuse cases often involve more than the individual perpetrator. Survivors may be able to bring civil claims against:
- Priests, ministers, rabbis, and spiritual leaders
- Dioceses, archdioceses, or religious orders
- Private religious schools and seminaries
- Youth ministry programs or religious camps
- Supervisors and leadership who failed to act on reports
We investigate institutional knowledge, document concealment, and decades of records to build strong, survivor-focused cases.
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Why Choose Edelstein Law for Clergy Abuse Cases?
Survivors of clergy abuse need more than legal skill — they need lawyers who listen, protect, and understand. At Edelstein Law, we combine strategic litigation with survivor-centered care.
🛡️ Compassionate, Trauma-Informed Advocacy
We handle each case with sensitivity and confidentiality. We never pressure survivors — we support them.
📁 Deep Experience with Institutional Liability
We know how to investigate religious organizations, uncover cover-ups, and hold institutions legally accountable.
⚖️ Trial-Tested Representation
If your case goes to court, we are fully prepared to fight aggressively for justice and compensation.
🤝 No Upfront Costs
We represent survivors on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we win.
Serving Clients Across Pennsylvania & New Jersey
Edelstein Law represents clergy abuse survivors in both state and federal courts across PA and NJ. From our offices in Philadelphia, PA and Cherry Hill, NJ, we handle cases in:
Pennsylvania Counties:
Philadelphia, Montgomery, Bucks, Delaware, Allegheny, Lancaster, Chester, Lehigh, and more
New Jersey Counties:
Camden, Burlington, Mercer, Monmouth, Essex, Atlantic, and statewide
Federal Jurisdictions:
Eastern District of Pennsylvania, District of New Jersey, and others
Whether the abuse occurred in a Catholic diocese, Protestant church, Jewish temple, or other religious community, our team has the tools and experience to help.
Questions About Clergy Abuse & Assaults?
We Have Answers
Can I sue the church or religious institution, not just the individual?
Yes. Many clergy abuse claims are filed against dioceses, churches, and religious schools that failed to report or prevent abuse.
What if the abuse happened decades ago?
You may still be eligible. Both PA and NJ have expanded time limits, and lookback windows may apply. Contact us for a case evaluation.
Will I have to go public?
Not unless you want to. Many civil claims can be filed anonymously or under protective orders to protect your identity.
Is there a cost to speak with your firm?
No. We offer free, confidential consultations, and we don’t charge any legal fees unless we win your case.
What if the abuser has died?
You may still have a claim against the institution that enabled the abuse. These cases often involve systemic failures that transcend the individual perpetrator.
Steps to Take as a Clergy Abuse Survivor
If you’re considering legal action — whether recently or decades after the abuse — here are steps that can help:
Document What You Remember
Write down names, dates, and any details you can recall. Even partial memories are valuable.
Preserve Any Evidence
Keep letters, emails, church bulletins, photos, or other items that may help verify timelines or relationships.
Talk to an Attorney Confidentially
Speaking with a trauma-informed attorney early can help protect your rights and clarify your options.
Understand That Healing Takes Time
Whether or not you move forward legally, the decision is yours — and we’re here to support you either way.
Contact Edelstein Law - Confidential Legal Help
If you were sexually assaulted by an Uber or Lyft driver, you’re not alone — and you’re not powerless.
📞 Call (215) 893-9311
📨 Request a confidential consultation HERE
We believe survivors. We fight corporations. And we’ll stand with you every step of the way.
