BEFORE YOU FILE

• Think carefully. Although many dioceses say they will listen with respect and caring, the opposite often is true.

• You may be ignored

• You may be blamed for the situation

• You may face retaliation. It’s more common than not. And yes, the canons say this is forbidden.

• Many complainants do not get the pastoral response promised by canons

• Many of the most abusive priests are master liars and con artists

• Many dioceses ignore the requirements of Title IV.

• The process can be decidedly amateur-hour

• Many dioceses make up “rules” on the fly

• If it doesn’t involve children, sex, drugs or money, it’s a long shot. Even if it does, odds are mixed.

• In the best of circumstances, it’s a long, long process