Tag: Baltimore sexual abuse lawyer

Catholic Church Sexual Abuse and the Path to Justice

Posted on by Loni Liss

The unwavering trust and faith that congregants once had in the Catholic Church has been shaken by disturbing reports of abuses committed within their ranks. Catholic Church sexual abuse has traumatized so many children and families throughout Maryland.

The institutional coverup against the molestation of thousands of children extended over decades. In no place were these abuses more deeply ingrained than the Archdiocese of Baltimore. 

Our compassionate team of lawyers is here for church sexual abuse survivors. We are committed to giving individuals a platform to be heard and a safe place to share their stories.

Time is limited for you to seek justice against the harmful actions of trusted clergy. You can contact The Yost Legal Group at 1-800-967-8529 for a confidential conversation to understand your rights.

“He said god chose me and that I could never tell anyone or God would not love me anymore.”

A Legacy of Betrayal: The Archdiocese of Baltimore Scandal

The recent revelations from the report on the Archdiocese of Baltimore expose a disturbing truth.

Those meant to protect and serve have instead enabled and sheltered abusers, betraying the trust of their parishioners and tarnishing the sanctity of the Church.

For more than 80 years, a sinister culture of secrecy enabled a horrifying sequence of events to unfold. The survivors, burdened by the truth they carried, have endured many difficulties due to their trauma.

Our compassionate sexual abuse lawyers are committed to helping you through an essential part of your healing. You can take back your power by standing up and fighting back to make the Church accountable.

“No one listened when I told what happened. They said it was my fault.”

Survivors Sharing Their Stories of Abuse in Maryland

As a survivor of the Church’s betrayal many have lived with deep emotional scars. Many survivors have revealed that our confidential sanctuary is the first place they have shared their stories. 

At The Yost Legal Group, our unwavering commitment is to listen, guide, and support. Your experience is significant. Together, we can bridge the gap between silent suffering and the start of a new beginning that belongs entirely to you.

A Beacon of Hope on the Road to Redemption

As dedicated lawyers representing survivors of Catholic church sexual abuse, we provide support and guidance.

Our approach goes beyond legal advocacy. We are empathetic as we fight for the rights that were violated by an institution led by coverups and greed.

You have a right, a voice, and a chance to be heard. Our role is to guide you through your legal options, explain the claim process, and provide support. 

You do not have to pay anything upfront when we make your claim. We will handle your case on a contingent fee basis. We only get paid after we reach a financial recovery for you. And if there is no recovery, no fees or expenses are due.

We will fight tirelessly on your behalf. Please know that you are not alone; we stand as allies in your pursuit of a restored sense of self and justice.

We are filing claims for survivors of church sexual abuse in Maryland

Embracing Your Right to File a Claim: Time is of the Essence

Time is running out for survivors seeking to hold the Archdiocese accountable. Time is of the essence, as this window of opportunity is shortening because the Church filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy.

For the brave survivors ready to take the next step, our doors are open to you. By making a confidential claim, you shine a light that validates your own truth and can potentially spare future innocents from similar ordeals.

Moving Forward with Unyielding Resolve

We recognize that this path is personal and unique. Our role is to walk it with you, providing strength in unity.

Your story, your church abuse claim, and your pursuit of justice are catalysts for change. We applaud you and your strength for standing up against your abuser and demanding change and accountability.

The Time for Action Is Now

We hope you take the vital step of contacting us for a free, confidential consultation. 

Your voice has the power to break the cycle of abuse and ensure those responsible for perpetuating this unacceptable legacy are held accountable.

We stand ready to champion your cause, convey empathy without judgment, and be a steadfast ally in your journey. 

It is time to act. It is time to seek the justice you deserve. Contact our dedicated team at 800-967-8529. 

If you or a loved one was molested by any member or employee of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, you have a right to file a claim. You have a chance to come forward now to tell your truth in a safe, confidential environment. If you have any questions at all about the process of filing a claim, please give us a call. We would be happy to explain everything to you without any obligation.

The Voice of a Survivor of Church Sexual Abuse in Baltimore

Posted on by Loni Liss

Rebecca was a sweet 14-year-old little girl in the 8th grade when she was violently raped and sexually assaulted. The sexual abuse and rape happened while she was in school at St Peter Clavers Catholic School in Baltimore. They told her that the church sexual abuse was her fault.

Life has been very challenging for our client. She had to fight internal demons her entire life just to get from one day to the next. She didn’t realize until recently that the abuse she sustained as a young girl was not her fault.

Sadly, Rebecca carried the trauma of her childhood sexual abuse throughout her life, like many other survivors. Now, 50 years later, she has hired The Yost Legal Group to file a claim on her behalf against the Archdiocese of Baltimore.

Rebecca is standing up and speaking out by writing poems about the abuse. She is extremely shy but has found her voice through her writings. Here is a poem Rebecca wanted to share.

The Catholic Church allowed the sexual abuse of thousands of children.

You said we should be honored to be selected. The priest was a pedophile. Archdiocese of Baltimore

Rebecca’s Poem, A Survivor’s POINT OF VIEW

It was such an honor serving next to God’s right-hand man.

They taught us all we know about being a devoted Catholic.

We served as altar boys. We did folk masses and then the long-awaited confirmation.

But through it all, you taught us something else.

You said we should be honored to be selected.

At first, you touched us. You knew what to do and where to touch.

You said we know you were doing the right thing because it feels good.

We were confused. What is this you are doing? How could this be right?

But you kept coming. You kept touching and exploring.

We complained. We don’t want to do this. But you insisted that we should be honored.

God chose us. We are special. But you can’t tell anyone.

Then you wanted us to touch you. This can’t be right.

But you know best. You’re an adult. You are next to God.

What do we know? We are just kids. You are here to take care of us, right?

Then it happens. We are violated in the ultimate way.

It hurts so bad. We beg you to stop. We cry to no avail.

Then it’s over. You tell us this is our little secret.

Little do we know you’ll be back for more and more.

Why do we feel so dirty and bad? We can’t stand to look at ourselves.

We can’t concentrate. How can we face our parents? If they knew, they would disown us.

This secret is killing us, but we can’t tell. We are wrong. We are bad.

We wish we could just disappear. We’re not fit to be in this world.

Life sucks.

Now we are older. The abuse has stopped, but the pain lingers on.

We haven’t told anyone. He got away with it.

He ruined our lives. We suffered unnecessarily, and for what, your pleasure?

We trusted you. We put our lives in your hands.

You hurt us in more ways than one, and you’re not even sorry.

You teach us to atone for our sins, to confess to God.

When will you? What penance will you do for your sins? 10 Hail Mary’s?

You were wrong. You owe us compensation and restitution for our pain and suffering.

You also owe us your solemn oath that this will not happen again.

All of you let this happen, but no more.

If the Catholic Church is for real, then they will take steps to ensure our safety and not cover up wrongdoing.

As for us, pray for us that we will heal. In fact, now that the secret is out, that is the beginning of healing.

We know now. We are not dirty. We are not bad.

We were victims but are now survivors and productive members of society.

We are united. You can no longer hurt us, and we are determined that you will not hurt anyone else.

We are strong, and we are one.

—- By Rebecca W.

We were confused. What is this you are doing_ How could this be right? Archdiocese of Baltimore raped children.

Let The Yost Legal Group File a child sexual abuse claim on your behalf.

The church enabled the child sexual abuse of thousands of children over the last 75 years. At The Yost Legal Group, our church sexual abuse lawyers are fighting back for all survivors to seek justice and financial compensation.

Rebecca, along with many other men and women, has hired The Yost Legal Group to file a claim against the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Our sexual assault lawyers will fight back against the injustice of the church molestation.

It is time to come forward and tell your story. Because of the bankruptcy, time is running out for you to file a claim. If you were molested at church, our caring and compassionate child sexual abuse lawyers can help you.

By telling your story, you can help prevent other children from suffering abuse.

If you were sexually abused at church, in school, or at an after-school program connected to the Archdiocese of Baltimore, call us at 1-800-967-8529.

We are here to listen to your story and fight for the justice you deserve.

We complained. We don’t want to do this. But you insisted that we should be honored

Free Legal Consultation to Discuss Church Sexual Abuse Claims.

It will NOT cost you anything to discuss your case. We do not charge anything upfront. In fact, you do not need to pay us anything until after we settle your case. And if there is no settlement, there are no fees or expenses due.

The Yost Legal Group is honored to represent Rebecca and all survivors of child sexual abuse by the church.

School District Pays $3.9 Million in Sexual Abuse Lawsuit

Posted on by Loni Liss

Lawsuit Won for Failing to Stop Abusive Paraeducator

The Tahoma School District recently paid a sexual abuse survivor $3.9 million to resolve a child sexual abuse lawsuit. The School District negligently continued to employ Bryan Neyers, a former para-teacher, after receiving allegations that he was sexually abusing and grooming students.

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of a student in January 2022 in King County Superior Court. The sexual abuse lawsuit alleges that the student was sexually abused when he was between 5 and 7 years old by a paraeducator. The molestation took place in Tahoma Elementary School’s Early Enrichment Program.

The alleged sexual abuse occurred between 2018 and 2020. The man faces child rape and molestation charges involving three young boys and first-degree rape charges involving a fourth child.

Neyers began working at Tahoma Elementary School in 2015. Within a year, the Maple Valley school district started receiving reports about Neyers’s concerning behavior, such as a lack of boundaries with students.

School officials did not meet with Neyers to address his behavior until June 2018. Even with that meeting, they still failed to take proper actions to address the issue, according to court documents.

If you or a loved one is a survivor of childhood sexual abuse in a school or other educational setting, you may have a case under Maryland’s new law. If you are ready to talk, we are here to listen. Call The Yost Legal Group for a free and confidential consultation at 1-800-967-8529. 

elementary school children sexually abused by assistant teacher

Protecting Children from Sexual Abuse: Understanding the Grooming Process

When it comes to sexual abuse, understanding the grooming process is crucial. In certain cases, grooming can be an independent intentional tort requiring a child sexual abuse attorney to prove damages.

Grooming serves as a warning sign, providing organizations and caregivers an opportunity to intervene and prevent the abuse from happening. Grooming often comes before the act of physical abuse. The grooming process usually has three stages:

  • Isolating: Most children know the importance of not accepting rides from unfamiliar adults. However, when the adults are a coach, teacher, sponsor, or other such person, a child might hesitate to refuse.

The adult may tell children they have special abilities and would benefit from one-on-one coaching or tutoring. Many children do not say no. Furthermore, many organizations allow such behavior, and caregivers do not see the red flag.

  • Gaining Trust: Over time, the one-on-one sessions can become more intimate. This intimacy is usually two-way. Groomers share secrets with children or, at least, makeup secrets to further gain trust. The transition could take a few weeks or a few years.

Frequently, the groomer also buys gifts for the targeted child. Inappropriate comments or activities usually begin at this point as well.

  • Concealing and Controlling the Relationship: One of the gifts might include a phone or other communication device. Inappropriate comments and activities escalate, usually accompanied by a “Don’t tell anyone about this.” Examples of these activities include photographing a child in a dance costume or playing with a child and “accidentally” touching the child’s genitals.

Fight back against child sexual assault with The Yost Legal Group

The most significant standalone grooming case to date might be 2011’s United States vs. Chambers (No. 09-3654). A jury convicted the defendant of violating the federal enticement statute.

Chambers argued that, although he chatted with an undercover agent for several months, he did not intend to meet “the girl,” nor did he take a substantial step toward meeting her.

The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals disagreed, noting that “child sexual abuse can be accomplished by several means and is often carried out through a period of grooming.”

The court recognized that grooming refers to deliberate actions taken by a defendant to expose a child to sexual material. The defendant’s ultimate goal is to form an emotional connection with the child and reduce the child’s inhibitions to prepare the child for sexual activity.

The burden of proof in criminal court is beyond any reasonable doubt. The burden of proof in civil court is much lower. In that sense, even just a little evidence of grooming goes a long way.

parateacher sued for child molestation by sexual abuse lawyer

What are the kinds of sexual abuse?

Grooming a child is just one form of sexual abuse. It is also worth noting that “abuse” is different from “assault.” Only some forms of sexual abuse involve physical contact.

These kinds of abuse include:

  • Verbal: Crude jokes might be the most common form of verbal sexual abuse. Many of these abuse survivors do not speak up.

Usually, because they are afraid of the social or relational consequences of speaking up. One or two isolated incidents might not be actionable. But a pattern of conduct is a tort.

  • Ritualistic: We move from perhaps the most common form of sexual abuse to maybe the most uncommon form. Nevertheless, ritualistic abuse happens, and it hurts. Making matters worse, many survivors are brainwashed to accept things like incest rituals, genital mutilation, child marriage, and chants during abuse.
  • Visual: Unwanted exposure to explicit images is sexual abuse. Children cannot simply change the channel. Instead, they must bear the harmful consequences of uninvited exposure to sexually explicit photos, sexting or airdropping, and exhibitionism or flashing.
  • Physical: Examples of physical sexual abuse include non-consensual cornering, tickling, kissing, excessive cleaning of genitals, touching, fondling, physical restraint, enemas, invasion of privacy, and stalking. Disproportionate power relationships (teacher and student) influence the potential for physical sexual abuse.

The impact of child sexual abuse causes long-lasting mental and physical injuries such as Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. The cumulative effects of this type of stressful situation on child sexual abuse survivors can alter brain chemistry.

The resulting imbalance causes symptoms like anger, depression, and hypervigilance. Any form of child sex abuse or sexual violence against a child is unacceptable. These acts on young athletes by sports coaches, or sexual contact by a YMCA employee all must be brought to justice.

young child feeling isolated after sexual abuse

Is an organization responsible if the abuse happened at their location?

Individuals are criminally responsible when they sexually abuse children. But criminal cases usually do not compensate victims. To obtain the compensation victims need and deserve, an experienced sexual assault lawyer typically uses the negligent supervision theory.

Organizations negligently supervise employees when they do not adequately investigate misconduct allegations or do not properly follow through on such allegations.

Unfortunately, many organizations do not take abuse allegations seriously, especially in non-violent sexual abuse cases. Instead, they sweep things under the rug. The Baltimore Catholic Church ignored such allegations for decades. That is the main reason Maryland lawmakers abolished the statute of limitations in these matters.

Sadly, organizations like the YMCA, the Boy Scouts, and Foster Care are all breeding grounds for pedophiles. These investigations must be transparent, efficient, and thorough. Then, when investigations end, organizations must take appropriate action based solely on the facts uncovered.

Contact a compassionate child sexual abuse lawyer

Under Maryland’s new law, childhood sexual abuse survivors are entitled to significant compensation. If you or a loved one was sexually abused by a teacher, guidance counselor, or other school faculty or staff, you may have a case.

For a free and confidential consultation with a compassionate childhood sexual abuse lawyer, call The Yost Legal Group today: 1-800-967-8529. You can also click this link to fill out a form online, and someone will contact you shortly.

Looking for signs of child sexual abuse is one indicator. If you think the Department of Education isn’t taking your complaint about harm to your child seriously, contact us. If your child was abused by a coach, we are here to help.

We should take sexual abuse in public schools vs. the catholic church very seriously. We must hold these organizations accountable.

Athlete Sexual Abuse Lawyer – Foster Care Sexual Abuse Lawyer – School Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Teacher Sexual Abuse Lawyer – Therapist Sexual Abuse Lawyer – Boy Scouts Sexual Abuse Lawyer

YMCA Sexual Abuse Lawyer – Athletic Trainer Sexual Abuse Lawyer

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DO I HAVE A CASE?

Contact us at the Yost Legal Group for a free initial consultation. We can help to provide information about ongoing litigation or discuss the circumstances of your individual case. There is no fee or expense unless you recover.