San Francisco Archdiocese Faces Bankruptcy Amidst Lawsuits

The Archdiocese of San Francisco is likely to file for bankruptcy due to a surge of lawsuits alleging child sexual abuse by priests and other employees and volunteers dating back decades. Over 500 civil lawsuits have been filed against the Catholic archdiocese since California temporarily lifted the statute of limitations on such allegations. Filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy would allow the archdiocese to handle the cases collectively and reorganize its financial affairs while continuing its ministries. Other dioceses in California have also considered or filed for bankruptcy due to similar lawsuits. Victim advocates criticize the move, claiming it is an attempt to protect the church's secrets and reduce compensation for survivors. The archdiocese argues that bankruptcy would ensure a fair process for all accusers and prevent an unfair advantage for those who filed lawsuits first.