BishopAccountability.org
	LA Church May Settle Abuse Suits Earthtimes July 14, 2007 http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/82887.html Los Angeles, July 14 Lawyers involved in civil suits against the Roman Catholic archdiocese of Los Angeles were working on a global settlement Saturday. The litigation by more than 500 people who claim they were sexually abused by priests, involves 30 Catholic clerical orders and dozens of insurance companies, The Los Angeles Times reported. J. Michael Hennigan, the archdiocese's lawyer, and Raymond Boucher, representing the victims, told the newspaper they believe a settlement can be reached by Monday, when jury selection is scheduled to begin in some cases. The archdiocese is the largest in the United States. A settlement of all the litigation would involve about $650 million. The archdiocese agreed last year to settle all suits involving abuse during Cardinal Roger Mahony's tenure, agreeing to pay $60 million to 45 plaintiffs. David Clohessy -- national head of Survivors' Network of Those Abused by Priests -- predicted the negotiations would succeed. "My understanding is that they are close to a deal," Clohessy said. "On the eve of trial, church officers always come close. If I had to bet, I'd bet there will be a deal. I understand both sides are working feverishly toward one."
Any original material on these pages is copyright © BishopAccountability.org 2004. Reproduce freely with attribution.