Survivors have brought legal action against the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon Church), claiming they suffered childhood sexual abuse at the hands of church leaders, volunteers, or affiliated individuals within church programs. The lawsuits contend that the church failed to report incidents, allowed cover-ups, and prioritized secrecy, prompting many survivors to pursue justice through confidential settlements.

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Mormon Church Sexual Abuse Lawsuits: Eligibility, Potential Compensation & How to File

This guide outlines who may qualify to file a sexual abuse lawsuit against the Mormon Church, what compensation could be available, recent case developments, and the step-by-step process for submitting a claim.

Who May Be Eligible to File

• Experienced sexual abuse by a church leader, volunteer, or other affiliated member (e.g., bishop, youth leader, missionary, or seminary instructor)
• Abuse occurred during childhood or within programs overseen by the church (such as youth groups, Seminary, or Boy Scouts)
• Suffered long-term emotional, psychological, or physical harm, or were discouraged from reporting the abuse at the time

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Settlement Options & Potential Compensation

Settlement values vary by survivor experience, supporting evidence, and jurisdiction. Many cases include Potential Compensation May Include:

• Costs for therapy and mental health care
• Pain and suffering
• Lost income or diminished earning capacity
• Severe trauma or lifelong disability

Publicly reported settlements in Mormon Church abuse cases have ranged from approximately $75,000 to $500,000, with the most serious cases exceeding $1 million.

These figures are illustrative only. Actual compensation depends on individual case details, documentation, jurisdiction, and applicable state laws. No outcome is guaranteed

Recent Case Updates & Developments

• September 22, 2025: Two Seattle families file suit against the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, alleging it knowingly allowed a convicted abuser to work with children in the 1980s. The lawsuit claims church leaders ignored repeated warnings, enabling assaults on two young girls.
• September 19, 2025: Reports indicate the LDS Church is steering survivors toward private claims resolution with select plaintiffs’ firms, offering confidential settlements outside of court oversight.
• August 7, 2025: Settlements reportedly range from mid-five figures for time-barred claims to millions for cases with strong documentation; the process remains largely opaque and confidential.
• August 1, 2025: No federal MDL has been formed, but plaintiffs’ firms in multiple states are coordinating informally, sharing experts and records to create a mass tort framework outside court supervision.
• 2025: Over 100 active cases in California continue toward confidential settlements. Federal MDL consolidation was denied, but state-level coordination is ongoing.
• 2024: At least 91 new sexual abuse claims filed; internal recordings suggest the Church suppressed victim reports.
• 2023: Leaked church memos revealed systemic cover-ups prioritizing reputation over survivor safety.

This section is updated monthly with notable filings, MDL developments, and verdicts.

Step-by-Step Lawsuit Process

1. Free Evaluation: Survivors confidentially provide details of their experiences and any supporting records.
2. Investigation: Attorneys review church documents, survivor testimony, and expert reports to assess the claim.
3. Filing: Lawsuits are filed individually, though many cases are resolved through private settlements.
4. Resolution: Most cases conclude with confidential settlements. Survivors typically pay no upfront legal fees.

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References & Sources

• Axios: LDS Abuse Lawsuit Update
• Law Firm Report: LDS Abuse Lawsuits

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