Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

The Mormon Church – also known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or the LDS Church – has a 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” and gain authority and “callings” to leadership over others in the church.

Unfortunately, too often, abusers manipulate this trust and reverence to prey upon children. Historically, LDS bishops and stake presidents often insisted on handling allegations internally, and strongly discouraged intervention by outside authorities.

The response by the local LDS church (either at the ward or stake level) was often to remove the perpetrator’s calling without warning the rest of the ward or stake about the reason for the discipline. Whatever the intent, such actions can allow predators to continue to victimize children. Too often, people who are abused within an LDS congregation feel that nothing will be done if they report abuse, and so they instead suffer in silence.

Those who have survived Mormon abuse often have conflicting feelings of doubt, shame, confusion, and anger. At the same time, many remain deeply loyal to the LDS faith. We understand this conflict. The Mormon abuse attorneys at Crew Janci LLP have represented dozens 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 contact us today or call toll-free at 1-888-407-0224.