A Long-Awaited Measure of Justice
After six long years, nearly 500 survivors of clergy sexual abuse have reached a $246 million settlement with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester, marking one of the largest payouts by a U.S. diocese to date. This moment reflects not just a legal resolution but the power of perseverance, solidarity, and survivor-led advocacy within the bankruptcy process.
At Andreozzi + Foote, we’re proud to have represented one of the survivors who served on the Tort Claimants’ Committee, the critical body of survivors who carried the weight of this case forward through every twist, delay, and negotiation.
As attorney Nate Foote put it:
“While no amount of money can truly compensate the nearly 500 survivors from the Diocese of Rochester, Andreozzi + Foote is proud to have played a role in achieving this historic recovery. Our client served on the Tort Claimants’ Committee throughout the six-year case. The Committee remained steadfast through years of hard-fought negotiations. In the end, the perseverance of the Committee, Andreozzi + Foote, Committee counsel, and other survivor counsel across the country brought about a meaningful resolution for hundreds of deserving individuals.”
What the Settlement Means
This agreement provides financial compensation to hundreds of survivors who were abused by clergy in the Diocese of Rochester over the course of decades. But more than that, it represents validation. It recognizes harm that for too long was silenced, ignored, or shielded by religious privilege and institutional cover-ups.
The settlement comes after the diocese filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2019, citing a wave of lawsuits brought under New York’s Child Victims Act, which opened a legal window for adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse to file claims.
Understanding the Bankruptcy Process in Clergy Abuse Cases
Bankruptcy is often used by dioceses and other institutions facing a large number of sexual abuse lawsuits. While controversial, Chapter 11 bankruptcy allows the institution to:
- Halt all pending lawsuits
- Consolidate survivor claims into one forum
- Propose a reorganization plan that includes a settlement fund for survivors
But make no mistake: this process is not easy on survivors. It often takes years. It can feel dehumanizing. And too often, institutions use bankruptcy to protect their assets rather than fully accept accountability.
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The Survivor’s Role: A Seat at the Table
What many people don’t realize is that in diocesan bankruptcies, survivors have a voice not just as claimants, but as leaders.
The Tort Claimants’ Committee (TCC) is made up of survivors who represent the interests of all abuse claimants throughout the bankruptcy. They negotiate directly with the institution, insurers, and other parties. They:
- Review and respond to proposed settlement plans
- Advocate for fair and equitable compensation
- Demand transparency about institutional assets and conduct
- Push back against secrecy, delay tactics, and under-valued offers
Our client’s work on this Committee was instrumental in holding the Diocese of Rochester accountable. It’s an honor to have supported them every step of the way.
Why This Matters
This case sends a powerful message to survivors everywhere: your voice matters.
It also reminds us that:
- Bankruptcy isn’t a shield for the powerful it can be a tool for survivors when used correctly.
- Survivor-led advocacy changes outcomes.
- Justice is possible.
What Comes Next
The $246 million will be placed into a trust and distributed to survivors based on a court-approved process. Survivors can submit details about their abuse to be evaluated by independent claims reviewers, with the goal of fairly allocating the funds. This process takes time but the hard-fought foundation is now in place.
At Andreozzi + Foote, We Stand With Survivors
We’ve represented survivors in some of the most complex institutional abuse cases in the country. If clergy or an institution harmed you, and that institution has filed for bankruptcy, remember this: you still hold your rights, you can seek compensation, and you don’t have to face this alone.
We understand these battles are difficult, and we believe survivors deserve legal counsel that is both trauma-informed and relentless in pursuing justice.
Ready to Talk?
Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. 1-866-753-5458. Whether you need support in an active bankruptcy case or are considering legal action, we’re here to help you reclaim your voice.