The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans reached a proposed $230 million settlement in September 2025 to resolve more than 500 clergy sexual abuse claims filed after the Archdiocese declared bankruptcy in 2020. This revised settlement offer—an increase from the previous $180 million—was made to persuade attorneys and survivors to vote in favor of the deal. If approved, survivor payments could begin as early as 2026.
The settlement includes the Roman Catholic Church of the Archdiocese of New Orleans and its affiliated parishes, schools, academies, Catholic Charities organizations, and other ministries. Together, they have agreed to compensate individuals who claim they were sexually abused by clergy or church personnel.
What Counts as Sexual Abuse?
Sexual abuse takes many forms and is not limited to physical contact. It can include:
- Unwanted sexual behavior or advances
- Inappropriate sexual comments or remarks
- Any conduct that was sexual in nature—whether or not it was recognized as abuse at the time
What Survivors Need to Know
If you were harmed by a priest, clergy member, or someone associated with the Archdiocese, you are not alone. This process was created:
- To provide a safe, confidential way to pursue compensation
- To allow survivors to seek justice without filing a public lawsuit
- To hold institutions accountable for the harm caused
The Deadline is December 2, 2025
Survivors must act quickly. The deadline to file a claim is December 2, 2025. Missing this deadline could mean losing the opportunity to receive compensation from the settlement fund.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is eligible to file a claim in New Orleans?
Anyone who was sexually abused by a priest, clergy member, or other personnel connected to the Archdiocese of New Orleans or its affiliated organizations may be eligible.
Does the abuse have to have happened recently?
No. Survivors in Louisiana can file claims for abuse that occurred many years ago, even if it wasn’t recognized as abuse at the time.
Do I need to hire a New Orleans clergy abuse lawyer?
While you are not required to have a lawyer, working with an experienced New Orleans sexual abuse attorney can help ensure your claim is properly filed and handled within the deadline.
Will my information remain confidential?
Yes. The claims process is designed to protect survivors’ privacy. Your identity and details will not be made public.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
If you do not file a claim by December 2, 2025, you may lose the chance to receive compensation through the Archdiocese settlement program.
When will payments begin?
If the settlement is approved, survivor payments could begin as early as 2026.
Speak With a New Orleans Clergy Abuse Lawyer Today
Our law firm has extensive experience helping survivors of sexual abuse in Louisiana. We know how difficult it is to come forward, and we handle every case with compassion and confidentiality.
We offer free, confidential consultations to determine whether you qualify for a valid claim.
If you or someone you love is a survivor of clergy abuse in New Orleans or anywhere in Louisiana, don’t wait. Contact our office today to speak with an experienced New Orleans clergy abuse attorney before the December 2, 2025, deadline passes.
We have three convenient locations in Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Metairie, and Lafayette.
We proudly serve East Baton Rouge Parish, Lafayette Parish, Orleans Parish, and their surrounding areas:
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Baton Rouge Office
404 Europe Street
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70124
(225) 263-4787
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – New Orleans Office
365 Canal Street, Suite 415
New Orleans, Louisiana, 70130
(504) 294-3804
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Lafayette Office
1318 Camellia Boulevard, Suite 206
Lafayette, Louisiana, 70508
(337) 473-2991
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Metairie Office
111 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Suite 255
Metairie, Louisiana, 70005
(888) 601-0127