As hundreds of new cases of child sex abuse flood into the New York state courts, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester is strategizing their response to the tidal wave of liabilities it will now face by declaring bankruptcy as of September 12th. Rochester bishop, Salvatore Matano argued that by Rochester doing so it will allow future claimants a fair chance at legal compensation as opposed to all available funds being paid to the victims who filed first and the diocese incurring massing costs over years of court involvement.
More Bankruptcies Expected to Follow
Rochester is not expected to be the last diocese in the state to file for bankruptcy in the wake of new state laws for hearing cases of childhood abuse. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany and Buffalo are facing 140 and 30 new sexual misconduct lawsuits respectively and are believed to be contemplating filings as well. Similar revisions to the statue of limitations for such lawsuits are scheduled to take effect in New Jersey this December, leading to a window of opportunity for victims in that state to seek damages as well.
Millions in Compensation for Victims
Prior to the passing of the Child Victims Act in New York, statues of limitations prevented numerous victims from seeking damages against individuals and the Roman Catholic diocese that abuser was associated with. Even under prior law the church had already settled hundreds of cases of alleged abuse under the condition that the victims do not sue in the future. Tens of millions of dollars have been paid out by independently run compensation programs the various diocese have established. With an average award of $371,500.
Paul Mones will passionately work to ensure the best chance at your compensation for trauma endured by childhood abuse and that the institutions and individuals responsible are held accountable in court. As more and more victims can file new cases under changing laws it is important to start your fight for justice now. The window of opportunity won’t be open forever.