If you or your child were sexually abused in a Presbyterian Church, a Washington sexual abuse lawyer can help you and your family get justice. If you want to report sexual abuse by a clergy member or official of the Presbyterian Church in Washington State, you can:
- Report it to Washington State authorities or agencies: You can report sexual abuse to the local law enforcement authorities in your area or the Washington State Office of the Attorney General. You can also call the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, & Families (DCYF) if the incident involves a child. If the situation is an emergency, dial 911 for immediate help.
- Report it to the Seattle Presbytery: Contact the Seattle Presbytery to report the incident. According to the Presbyterian Church (USA)’s website, you can report abuse or misconduct involving church leadership to the Stated Clerk of the minister’s presbytery. All Presbyterian Churches in Washington State are listed under the Seattle Presbytery, and you can find the congregations on the Seattle Presbytery’s website.
- Report it to the Presbyterian Church (USA): Per the Presbyterian Church (USA), anyone who is a victim of abuse or misconduct can call the church’s hotline for help toll-free at (866) 607-SAFE (7233). The church has issued a policy addressing sex abuse and misconduct in the church. Part B. Reporting Requirements outlines guidelines for reporting sexual misconduct involving church personnel.
You Might Be Able to Report Presbyterian Church Sex Abuse Anonymously
Some plaintiffs who want to bring a sexual abuse lawsuit against the Presbyterian Church may have privacy concerns. For many, coming forward is already difficult. So, sharing their personal details and information with the public could add to their worries. Disclosing these details could compromise one’s safety and well-being.
In Washington state, plaintiffs in this situation can talk with their attorney about the possibility of filing a sex abuse lawsuit against the Presbyterian Church under a pseudonym or a fictitious name. Using another name allows survivors of sexual abuse to protect their privacy while seeking justice.
For a free legal consultation, call (725) 900-9000
When Can Sexual Abuse Survivors Pursue a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Anonymously?
Court cases are part of the public record, so it is rare for plaintiffs to receive permission to file a case under a pseudonym. Previous court cases, however, have established that plaintiffs can use another name under certain conditions, such as if they are suing a government entity or would risk incriminating themselves if they reveal information that shows their intention to commit a crime.
Plaintiffs can make a case for using a false name during the legal process, and courts can allow them to proceed anonymously for any reason if appropriate. There are several ways to move forward with a complaint using a pseudonym. Survivors could:
- File a motion with the court to proceed with their case under another name
- File a request in the complaint to proceed with another name
- File a complaint using the fictitious name
You can discuss any of these with an attorney. If you can proceed with legal action under another name in a Washington state sexual abuse, it is important to know that a pseudonym does not mean complete anonymity.
It means your identity won’t be disclosed to the public. You will still have to share personal information, including the details of the sexual abuse, with a judge and the opposing party’s legal representative.
No obligation consultations are always free.
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