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Jehovah's Witness Abuse Claims

Civil claims for abuse within Jehovah's Witness congregations. Two-witness rule challenges, elder accountability, and Watchtower liability. Free case review.

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The Jehovah's Witness organisation has faced significant legal scrutiny over its handling of internal abuse allegations, including the application of a two-witness rule that has prevented abuse from being reported to authorities. Civil claims can be brought against elders, congregations, and the Watch Tower organisation.

  • Two-witness rule — challenging internal suppression of reports
  • Elder accountability for abuse handling
  • Watchtower institutional liability
  • Abuse at Kingdom Hall facilities
  • Failure to report to civil authorities

Jehovah's Witness Abuse Lawsuits and Investigations

Courts have held Watchtower entities and congregations liable. In a well-known California case, a jury in 2012 awarded $28 million to Candace Conti, who was abused as a child by a congregation member; the award was reduced on appeal and the case settled in 2015.

Criminal investigators have also examined how congregations handle abuse. By April 2023, a Pennsylvania statewide grand jury investigation run by the attorney general's office had led to charges against nine men connected to Jehovah's Witness congregations. Investigators looked at how elders handled abuse reports, including the two-witness rule. The organisation has said that it recognises abuse as a crime and that the two-witness rule applies only to internal church discipline, not to reporting abuse to the authorities.

See also our guide to Jehovah's Witness abuse lawsuits.

State Law Notice: Laws governing civil claims for religious institution abuse vary significantly by state. Filing deadlines, lookback windows, and available defendants differ depending on where the abuse occurred and your current state of residence. The information on this page is general in nature. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon without first speaking to a qualified attorney about your specific circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue the Jehovah's Witnesses for child sexual abuse?
Yes. Claims can be brought against the abuser, the local congregation and the Watchtower corporate entities that direct how elders handle abuse reports. Courts in several states have heard claims like these.
What is the two-witness rule and how does it affect abuse claims?
Jehovah's Witness policy has required two witnesses or a confession before elders take congregational action over an accusation. Critics say this let abusers stay in congregations. How elders applied the rule can be evidence of negligence.
Do Jehovah's Witness elders have to report abuse to the police?
It depends on the state. Where clergy are mandatory reporters, elders may be required to report suspected child abuse. Failing to report when the law required it can support a civil claim.
Can I bring a claim if I have left the Jehovah's Witnesses or been disfellowshipped?
Yes. Leaving the organisation or being disfellowshipped does not affect your right to bring a civil claim. Many survivors come forward only after they have left.
Will my congregation find out if I contact a lawyer?
No. Contacting us is confidential, and nothing is shared with any congregation or organisation without your permission.
Can I sue if the abuse happened during door-to-door ministry or at a Kingdom Hall?
Yes. Abuse during congregation activities, including field service and meetings at a Kingdom Hall, can support a claim that the congregation failed to protect you.
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Further Reading

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