SBC Lawsuit: Report Alleges Sex Abuse Coverup by Southern Baptist Convention

Know What to Expect in a Southern Baptist Convention Lawsuit

Thousands may be eligible to file lawsuits against the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) for its failure to report and protect victims of sexual abuse. The SBC’s motivation for its lack of response: avoid liability. You can file a claim against the SBC if you experienced sexual abuse from any of the following: 

• Pastors
• Ministers
• Youth Pastors
• Sunday School Teachers
• Deacons
• Church Volunteers

If you were sexually abused while in an SBC church, contact a sexual abuse lawyer to get your claim started.

What is the SBC Report I Keep Hearing About?

In a public May 19 meeting, the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) said that it will release a list of alleged sex abusers after it ensures the names of survivors are not disclosed in the process. The report says that the SBC mishandled sexual abuse allegations by:

• Intimidating victims, witnesses and advocates
• Resisting attempts for reform over the last 20 years 

Released by a third-party firm on Sunday, May 22, the report found that “survivors and others who reported abuse were ignored, disbelieved, or met with the constant refrain that the SBC would take no action.”

The SBC has been named in several lawsuits by victims of clergy abuse for its failure to protect victims. 

What is the Southern Baptist Convention?

The SBC is the largest Protestant denomination in the United States with an estimated 14 million members across more than 47,000 Baptist churches. The organization maintains a central administrative organization in Tennessee and has an executive committee. 

For 20 years, the organization knew about the extent of sexual abuse among its members. Often, predators were moved to another church instead of being turned in to the police. There are four levels of the SBC organization: 

• Local Congregations
• Local Associations
• State Convention
• National Convention

Each tier may carry some liability for failure to protect and prevent sexual abuse. 

Should I File a Claim in the SBC Lawsuit?

If you experienced abuse, yes, you should file a claim. Survivors of SBC clergy abuse who may be eligible for this claim include anyone who: 

• Reported a claim of abuse
• Never filed a lawsuit or entered a settlement 
• Received a settlement, but believe they have additional claims against the SBC

There may be other circumstances that exist that may allow you to file a lawsuit against the SBC. If you’re unsure if you qualify for an SBC lawsuit, our lawyers want to talk with you to find out how we can help. 

How Much will an SBC Lawsuit Lawyer Cost?

A victim’s advocate lawyer will not charge you any upfront fees. The Carlson Law Firm will only receive a payment if you recover in a settlement or trial from the Southern Baptist Convention. 

Who Can I Talk to About Filing a Southern Baptist Convention Lawsuit?

A sexual abuse lawyer from The Carlson Law Firm will be happy to consult with you during a free and confidential case review. 

How Much Will I Get for an SBC Claim?

It’s far too early to say how much each victim will receive as part of the SBC lawsuit. 

Will I be Joining a Class Action if I File an SBC Lawsuit?

No. The Carlson Law Firm will be representing clergy sexual abuse victims on an individual basis. In other words, your financial recovery will reflect your unique circumstances. 

Get Help With Your SBC Lawsuit

The SBC had plenty of warning and opportunity to prevent the sexual abuse of potentially thousands and failed to act. This reprehensible lack of action in order to avoid paying victims is exactly why victims should come forward and pursue legal claims against the SBC. We offer free and confidential consultations to survivors of abuse.

Contact our team at 800-359-5690 to schedule your free case review today.