HAMBURG, N.Y., July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Dan Chiacchia, Esq. of Dan Chiacchia Injury Attorneys was part of a small team of attorneys that reached a partial $150 million settlement with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo on behalf of nearly 850 survivors of child sexual abuse. The settlement comes six years after the passing of New York's Child Victims Act, which suspended the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse claims. Most of the claims involve clerics, many with multiple allegations against them.
"This settlement represents a measure of justice for hundreds of survivors who have waited decades to be heard," said Mr. Chiacchia. "While no amount of money can erase the trauma they have suffered, it is a critical step toward acknowledgment, accountability, and healing for all of these brave survivors."
Citing liabilities related to the claims and litigation, the diocese filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in February 2020. The proposed settlement is intended to resolve the bankruptcy case with the source of the $150 million paid directly from the diocese, individual parishes, and other Catholic entities. However, the deal is contingent upon the creditor vote and final approval by the bankruptcy court. The official committee of unsecured creditors representing the survivors has endorsed the agreement, making full approval one step closer.
Mr. Chiacchia said funds will be disbursed once a bankruptcy plan is approved, which may take several months. Notably, no insurance contributions are included at this stage, though negotiations with insurers are ongoing. The diocese must submit its bankruptcy plan by September 1, and Mr. Chiacchia said he is hopeful to achieve a global resolution by the same deadline.
To date, the $150 million settlement is the second-largest contribution by a bankrupt Roman Catholic institution and affiliates in any Roman Catholic bankruptcy case, and the largest by any bankrupt diocese in upstate or western New York.
"[Survivors'] concerns and well-being will continue to be our constant preoccupation," the Diocese said in a statement. "While indeed a steep sum, no amount of money can undo the tremendous harm and suffering [the survivors] have endured, or eliminate the lingering mental, emotional, and spiritual pain they have been forced to carry throughout their lives."
Dan Chiacchia Injury Attorneys is a full-service personal injury law firm. To learn more about the firm's legal services and for a free case review, call 716-648-3030 or visit www.716personalinjury.com. Located in Hamburg, New York, the firm serves clients in West Seneca, Orchard Park, Lackawanna, Cheektowaga, Erie County, and the rest of Western New York.
Media Contact
Dan Chiacchia, Dan Chiacchia Injury Attorneys, 1 716-648-3030, [email protected], https://www.716personalinjury.com/
SOURCE Dan Chiacchia Injury Attorneys
Share this article