The Diocese of Albany filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy reorganization on March 15, 2023. The decision comes after survivors filed more than 400 lawsuits alleging acts of child sexual abuse by 107 clergy members and affiliates; some of these claims go back decades and were admittedly covered up by clergy members—including former Albany bishop Emeritus Howard Hubbard.
Religious organizations accused of acts of child sexual abuse have historically used Chapter 11 bankruptcy to protect the reputation of their institution and members. Chapter 11 status can shield organizations from the public scrutiny of a jury trial and prevent a growing account of sexual abuse claims through public filings.
Preliminary reports on the New York Child’s Victims Act show that more than 10,857 lawsuits alleging child sexual abuse were filed since the Child Victim’s Act look-back window closed on August 14, 2021; of these, 51.7% were associated with religious institutions—exposing over 1,050 bishops, cardinals, priests, church members, and staff of religious orders, as highlighted by BishopAccountability.org.
Despite the Diocese’s decision to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, clergy abuse survivors still have the right to pursue legal action. Slater Slater Schulman LLP is dedicated to the confidential representation of individuals who were abused as a child by a member of the clergy. If you or someone you love has suffered this form of abuse and wishes to file a claim, please contact Slater Slater Schulman LLP for a free, confidential consultation by filling out the form on this page or by calling our office at (800) 251-6990.
