Survivors of Clergy Abuse Have Legal Rights
Victims of clergy abuse—whether as children, teens, or young adults—have the right to pursue justice through the civil court system. Even when church leaders fail to act or attempt to cover up the wrongdoing, survivors may still be entitled to financial compensation for the trauma they have endured. These cases often involve negligent supervision, institutional cover-ups, and systemic failures that allowed abusers to continue harming victims.
At GOLDLAW, we understand the devastating and lifelong impact of sexual abuse. Our firm has decades of experience holding religious organizations, schools, and other institutions accountable for enabling predators. Survivors deserve not only to be heard but also to obtain justice and resources to help them move forward.
What Happened in the Assemblies of God
In August 2025, the Assemblies of God denomination faced public scrutiny after revelations that Daniel Savala, a convicted sex offender, had abused boys and young men connected to the church’s Chi Alpha college ministry in Texas. According to an NBC News investigation, Savala was presented to students as “the holiest man alive,” while, behind the scenes, he preyed on minors and young adults—often at his Houston home and in a backyard sauna.
At least 10 victims have come forward in lawsuits, sworn statements, and criminal filings, detailing how Savala sexually abused them over the course of years. Disturbingly, the report shows that Assemblies of God officials were repeatedly warned about Savala’s behavior as early as 2013 but failed to cut ties with him, giving him continued access to vulnerable students.
This week, Assemblies of God senior leader Doug Clay addressed thousands of pastors at a denominational meeting in Orlando, calling sex abuse a “scar on people’s lives.” Leaders promised reforms, including structural reviews and stronger protective policies. However, many survivors expressed deep frustration that the denomination refused to release the results of its internal investigation, citing privacy concerns. Victims say this decision shows a lack of transparency and accountability, leaving unanswered questions about how much leaders knew and when.
Why Victims Still Have a Case
The Assemblies of God’s decision not to publish its internal findings does not erase survivors’ rights. Victims of abuse at the hands of clergy or church-connected individuals may pursue claims against:
- The abuser (direct liability for the abuse)
- The church or denomination (negligence, failure to act on warnings, institutional cover-up)
- Affiliated programs and ministries that allowed contact between predators and minors
These legal claims can help survivors recover compensation for medical care, counseling, lost opportunities, and the lasting emotional toll of abuse. Importantly, civil cases also expose systemic failures and force institutions to prioritize transparency and safety for future generations.
GOLDLAW: Advocates for Survivors of Sexual Abuse
At GOLDLAW, we have seen firsthand the courage it takes for survivors to come forward. Our attorneys have successfully handled clergy abuse and institutional negligence cases across the country, fighting for accountability and justice. We know the tactics organizations use to shield themselves, and we are relentless in uncovering the truth.
If you or someone you love was abused through a religious program, church, or affiliated ministry, you are not alone—and you are not without options. Contact GOLDLAW today for a confidential consultation. We will listen, guide you through your rights, and fight to hold institutions accountable. 561-222-2222
