Watchtower Bible and Tract Society Sex Abuse Lawyer

For decades, survivors have come forward alleging that Jehovah’s Witnesses congregations and the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society failed to protect children from sexual abuse and, in some cases, concealed reports instead of alerting law enforcement.

International public inquiries and civil lawsuits have examined how safeguarding complaints were handled, including allegations of:

• Inadequate reporting to outside authorities

• Internal policies that discouraged disclosure

• Failures to remove known abusers from contact with children childabuseroyalcommission.gov.au+1

If you or someone you love experienced abuse connected to Jehovah’s Witness congregations or entities linked to the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, you may have legal options. Call to work with a Watchtower Bible and Tract Society Sex Abuse Lawyer today.

Background: Public Inquiries and Lawsuits

In several countries, governmental and independent bodies have scrutinized the organization’s handling of abuse:

• Australia: An in-depth case study by the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse examined how Jehovah’s Witnesses and the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of Australia handled abuse allegations and found serious shortcomings in their systems and responses. childabuseroyalcommission.gov.au

• United Kingdom: The Charity Commission conducted an inquiry into the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Britain’s oversight of safeguarding, noting concerns about transparency in responding to regulators and highlighting the need for improved child-protection practices. GOV.UK

• United States: Lawsuits in states such as Washington allege that the organization maintained internal databases of accused abusers, failed to contact police, and allowed known offenders continued access to children. InvestigateWest

These findings and allegations point to systemic issues that may have exposed many more children and vulnerable people to harm.

Common Allegations in Watchtower-Related Abuse Cases

Civil complaints and investigations commonly allege that:

• Elders or leaders failed to report abuse to law enforcement

• Internal policies required multiple “witnesses” to an assault before action was taken

• Known perpetrators were allowed to remain in congregations or move between congregations

• Survivors and families were pressured to stay silent or handle matters internally

Every case is fact-specific, but patterns like these can form the basis for institutional liability. A Watchtower Bible and Tract Society Sex Abuse Attorney can help you understand your options.

Who May Have a Sex Abuse Claim?

You may have a potential claim if:

• You were abused as a child or vulnerable person within a Jehovah’s Witness congregation or activity

• You reported abuse to elders or congregation leaders and no meaningful action was taken

• A known or alleged abuser was allowed to stay in a position of trust or authority

• You suffered ongoing harm because leaders failed to warn, supervise, or protect you

Even if the abuse occurred many years ago, extended or “revival” statutes of limitation for sex abuse may allow survivors to file claims in some jurisdictions. Laws vary state by state, so getting legal advice from a Watchtower Bible and Tract Society Sex Abuse Attorney quickly is important.

How Phillips Law Group Can Help Survivors

Phillips Law Group can:

• Review your history confidentially and help you understand your legal options

• Investigate whether institutional policies or leadership decisions contributed to your abuse

• Coordinate with co-counsel on multi-state or national litigation when appropriate

• Pursue compensation for therapy costs, lost income, and pain and suffering

• Seek accountability and push for institutional reforms where possible

We use a trauma-informed approach, centered on your safety and control over the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to sue the local congregation directly?

Depending on the facts and jurisdiction, claims may be brought against local congregations, national or international organizational entities, or related charities. An attorney can help identify all potentially responsible parties.

Will my name be public?

In many sex-abuse cases, survivors can file as “Jane Doe” or “John Doe.” Options depend on court rules where your case is filed.

What if the abuse happened decades ago?

Do not assume it is “too late.” Many states have extended or temporarily reopened time limits for child sexual abuse claims. An attorney can analyze deadlines based on your specific circumstances.

Talk With a Watchtower Bible and Tract Society Sex Abuse Attorney

If you experienced abuse connected to Jehovah’s Witness congregations or Watchtower-related entities, you are not alone.

Call Phillips Law Group for a confidential consultation with a Watchtower Bible and Tract Society Sex Abuse Lawyer.

You can also contact us through our online form 24/7.

Disclaimer: Allegations summarized on this page are based on public reports, investigations, and civil complaints. No finding of liability has been made unless specifically noted by a court or official inquiry.