LDS Church Abuse Lawsuit Update (2024–2025): Key Cases, Rulings, and the Path Ahead
Introduction
Over the past several years, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) has faced a wave of lawsuits alleging sexual abuse and institutional cover-up. Survivors have come forward from multiple states, citing a systemic failure to protect children and vulnerable individuals. From Arizona to Utah, litigation has escalated in 2024–2025, with several high-profile developments.
Significant Legal Developments in 2024–2025
Arizona Case Progresses Toward Trial: In a case involving multiple children allegedly abused by their father—a church member and leader—the plaintiffs argue that the LDS Church's abuse hotline was used to shield perpetrators instead of reporting abuse to authorities. A federal judge denied motions to dismiss, and the case is headed toward trial in 2025.
Montana Ruling Against LDS Church: In mid-2024, a Montana jury found the church liable for failing to report repeated abuse incidents involving a local bishop. The plaintiff was awarded $10.2 million in damages, marking one of the largest judgments in a church abuse case.
Expanding MDL Considerations: Legal experts are discussing the possibility of consolidating LDS abuse cases into a Multi-District Litigation (MDL), citing patterns of institutional response across states.
Institutional Accountability and Legal Questions
Religious Privilege vs. Mandatory Reporting: Key legal debates include whether internal church communications—like bishop confessions—should remain privileged or be subject to child protection laws.
Document Secrecy and Discovery Battles: Plaintiffs' attorneys continue to challenge the church's use of "clergy-penitent privilege" to withhold internal records.
The Road Ahead
With more survivors speaking out and courts increasingly siding with transparency and accountability, the LDS Church faces mounting legal and public pressure. Future cases in Nevada, Oregon, and Idaho are set to push this legal frontier further.
Conclusion
The LDS Church abuse lawsuits in 2024–2025 represent a critical moment in the pursuit of justice and institutional reform. Survivors, attorneys, and advocates are working tirelessly to ensure that religious authority no longer shields systemic abuse.
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