Recently, the Archdiocese filed objections to some (but not all) Survivors’ claims filed in this bankruptcy. The Bankruptcy Court approved a uniform procedure for all of these objections. The following FAQs provide a summary of these procedures, but please consult the Cout’s order, https://document.epiq11.com/document/getdocumentbycode?docId=4534439&projectCode=RCA&source=DM, or your attorney for complete details:

What is the deadline?

You MUST respond to the claim objection before January 31, 2026.

What if I miss the deadline?

Your claim may be disallowed. This means you are no longer a creditor in the bankruptcy. You will not be able to participate in any monetary settlement, and this might prevent you from recovering any money in any future lawsuit.

What do Survivors need to do now?

On or before December 12, 2025, the Archdiocese will contact you or your lawyer to confirm whether your claim is one that has been objected to.

If your claim has been objected to you MUST do the following before January 31, 2026:

• File a short notice with the Court.
• The notice must say:
  • If you oppose the Debtor’s position;
  • If you agree with the Debtor’s position; or
  • If you need additional time to consider the Debtor’s position.

How do I file?

Your attorney needs to file your response. If you don’t have an attorney you can visit this link for a guide on how to file on your own: https://www.mdb.uscourts.gov/dont-have-a-lawyer

Do I have to prove my claim in court?

Not right now, but eventually you might.  If you get notice that the Archdiocese objected to your claim, you will eventually need to provide evidence and respond specifically to the Archdiocese’s objection. The Court will tell you when you need to provide additional evidence, but it does not need to be included in the response you file on or before January 31, 2026.

Can I get information from the Archdiocese about my abuser?

If you need more information, or want the Archdiocese to produce evidence that supports its objection, you can contact the attorneys for the Archdiocese: Blake Roth (Holland & Knight LLP) by email at blake.roth@hklaw.com or by telephone at 615-244-6380. 

Mr. Roth is required to respond to your request within 3 business days.

What Happens After January 31, 2026?

After reviewing all the responses filed by Survivors, the Court will enter a scheduling order regarding unresolved claim objections. You should continue to monitor your mail, email, and the Court’s docket to see if you need to take action to defend your claim.