The Attorneys at Crew Janci LLP have Represented Dozens of Victims of Abuse in Cases Against the LDS Church
The Mormon Church – also known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or the LDS Church – has unique organizational structure and culture. Historically, the Mormon Church has been an insular religious community. Most male members in good standing will become “priesthood holders”, gain authority and “callings” to leadership over others within the church.
Unfortunately, too often, abusers manipulate trust and reverence to prey upon children. Historically, LDS bishops and stake presidents have insisted on handling allegations internally and have strongly discouraged intervention by outside authorities.
The response by the local LDS church (at either the ward or stake level) is often to remove the perpetrator’s “calling” without informing the rest of the ward or stake the reason for discipline. Whatever the intent, such actions can allow predators to continue to victimize children. Too often, those who are abused within an LDS congregation feel that nothing will be done if they report abuse and instead suffer in silence.
Those who have survived Mormon abuse often have feelings of doubt, shame, confusion, anger, and at the same time, many remain deeply loyal to the LDS faith. We understand this conflict. The attorneys at Crew Janci LLP have represented dozens of victims of abuse in cases against the LDS Church.
If you have suffered abuse in the LDS Church and would like to talk to someone about your options, please send us a message today or call toll-free at 1-888-407-0224.
