CHILD PROTECTION MOVEMENT - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Client Communications Advocate
Job Titles:
- Client Communications Manager
Asja holds a B.S. in Family Social Science from the University of Minnesota. Before joining Jeff Anderson and Associates, she worked as an Advocate coordinating crisis lines, providing court advocacy and supporting survivors through Sexual Assault Forensic Exams.
Asja enjoys volunteering in her spare time and has been involved with Women's Advocates and HandsOn Twin Cities. She brings expertise in working directly with survivors and provides a safe environment for clients here at Jeff Anderson and Associates.
Job Titles:
- Manager, Communications Team
Chelsea graduated from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls with a Bachelor's of Science in Business Management and Marketing. With experience managing communications efforts for large business divisions, Chelsea brings expertise in project management, budget planning, copy editing and writing and analyzing outreach efforts through data. Her empathy and passion for helping others drives her and continues to motivate her to make positive improvements and developments for the team. In her free time, Chelsea can be found reading Harry Potter, listening to true crime podcasts, painting, cooking or going on walks near the St. Croix River.
Job Titles:
- Legal Support Specialist at Jeff Anderson & Associates
Chidimma is a legal support specialist at Jeff Anderson & Associates. She graduated cum laude from Minnesota State University, Mankato with a degree in Philosophy, Political Science, Economics. With a lifelong passion for helping individuals feel empowered, Chidimma's commitment to seeking justice for survivors of sexual abuse is unwavering. Her attention to detail and ability to tackle any task while maintaining a calm and focused demeanor makes her a vital member of the team. Outside of work, Chidimma enjoys hiking, watching documentaries, and live music shows.
In 2018, Clayton began clerking at Jeff Anderson and Associates in March while attending law school. Since then, his passion for helping survivors of childhood sexual abuse has solidified his place at the firm and he is widely recognized as a kind, knowledgeable and respectful ally among his clients and colleagues alike.
Clayton received his bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from the University of North Dakota. While there, he developed a desire for a career in which he could help people in need, which led him to pursue a law degree at Mitchell Hamline School of Law. In 2019, he received his J.D., was admitted to the Minnesota Bar, and joined Jeff Anderson & Associates as an attorney.
While a law clerk, Clayton honed his advocacy skills at the Civil Advocacy Clinic, where he represented low-income tenants who were being exploited by unethical landlords. This important work laid the foundation for Clayton to become the dedicated survivor advocate he is today. He is honored to support survivors of childhood sexual abuse on their journeys to healing.
Darrow Anderson is dedicated to empowering survivors of childhood sexual abuse through advocacy and civil justice. As an advocate, he seeks to promote the protection of children through institutional transparency and to give a voice to those wrongfully silenced. As an attorney, he seeks to hold the perpetrators, concealers, and conspirators of childhood sexual abuse accountable for their crimes.
He spent his formative years in Stillwater, Minnesota. His lifelong athletic pursuits - including qualifying as a downhill skiing U.S. Junior Olympian - led him to Montana State University in Bozeman, where he studied philosophy, policy, and music. After receiving a BA in Philosophy in 2013, he returned to Minnesota to pursue a career in law and advocacy.
Beginning his legal career in environmental law, Darrow clerked in both the public and private sector, and worked as a certified student attorney for Legal Assistance for Minnesota Prisoners with a focus on injury, family, and civil rights. In 2018, he received his Juris Doctorate from Mitchell Hamline School of Law and joined Jeff Anderson & Associates in 2018 as a law clerk before his admission to the Bar in 2019.
Deacon Ronald Gonzalez was a permanent deacon for the Diocese of Dallas who worked in the Diocese of Phoenix. In 2013, Deacon Gonzalez was purportedly removed from his position in the Diocese of Phoenix after allegations of child sexual abuse arose from his time spent working in Texas and Pennsylvania. Deacon Gonzalez worked in the Diocese of Phoenix beginning in 1999 and worked at St. Thomas More in Glendale, Arizona, starting in 2003. Deacon Gonzalez was listed in Diocesan records as a chaplain for the Federal Bureau of Prisons in the Diocese of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, from 1983 to 2010. While in Dallas, he was assigned to a parish in Coppell, Texas. Deacon Gonzalez's name was included in the Diocese of Harrisburg's 2018 list of "Clergy & Seminarians Accused of Sexual Abuse of a Child" under the section "Cases Where Abuse was First Alleged While the Accused was Living" and "Cases Involving Allegations of Indecent Behavior." Deacon Gonzalez was also included on the Diocese of Phoenix's list of "Names of priests and deacons from other dioceses who may no longer serve in the Diocese of Phoenix due to an accusation of sexual misconduct with a minor." Deacon Gonzalez's current whereabouts and whether he has access to children are unknown.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Franciscan Friars of the Province of St. Barbara
Elin Lindstrom is honored to have spent her career since becoming an attorney in 2011 working with and advocating for survivors of childhood sexual abuse at Jeff Anderson & Associates. Since joining the firm, Elin has diligently advocated for survivors and worked hard to hold accountable the institutions that allowed the abuse to occur. Elin's empathy and compassion, combined with her legal and institutional knowledge and expertise, make her an essential part of the firm.
During her first six years with Jeff Anderson & Associates, Elin was an integral member of the trial teams that successfully litigated cases involving religious institutions from Minnesota and Wisconsin. In 2015, Elin was a recipient of the Minnesota Lawyer "Attorney of the Year" award for her work on one of the first cases to go to trial under the Minnesota Child Victims Act. Elin again was part of a team that received this award in 2018 for her work representing survivors in the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis Chapter 11 bankruptcy case. Elin has also been designated as a Super Lawyers "Rising Star" in Minnesota from 2017 to 2021.
In addition to her trial experience, Elin has worked on numerous Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases filed by religious institutions, most recently involving Dioceses in New York and Minnesota. Elin has also successfully advocated for the public exposure of thousands of secret documents and other non-monetary changes in religious organizations that have helped advance the child protection movement across the country.
Elin spent most of her childhood in Minnesota before finishing high school at Zurich International School in Switzerland. She obtained her bachelor's degree at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, and is a 2011 graduate of the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law in Salt Lake City. Elin is grateful to the survivors with whom she gets to work for having the courage to come forward and make a difference for future generations, including for her three young children.
Job Titles:
- Legal / Executive Assistant
Erin is the legal and executive assistant to attorneys Mike Reck, Trusha Patel, Josh Peck, Molly Burke and Jeff Anderson. Erin has been with the firm since 1993, making her the longest tenured employee at Jeff Anderson & Associates. She brings a calm demeanor and historical perspective that are invaluable to the day-to-day work of the firm.
Fr. Charles Rourke was ordained a priest in the Diocese of Tucson. According to a Special Pastoral Report from the Diocese released in 2003, a review of archival records revealed that there was a failure to report allegations of sexual misconduct with minors against Fr. Rourke and that Fr. Rourke remained in ministry after allegations were reported to the Diocese. Fr. Rourke was named in the Diocese of San Bernardino's list of "Clergy Credibly Accused of Child Sexual Abuse." According to this list, Fr. Rourke worked in the Diocese of San Bernardino as an extern priest with faculties and was accused of sexually abusing a child in approximately 1979. Fr. Rourke was also included on the Diocese of Tucson's "List of clergy and other Church personnel identified by the Diocese of Tucson with assignments, employment or ministry service within the Diocese about whom the Diocese is aware of credible allegations of sexual misconduct involving a minor" and on the Archdiocese of Santa Fe's "List of Priests, Deacons, & Religious Accused of Sexual Abuse of Children." Fr. Rourke has been named in at least one civil lawsuit. Fr. Rourke reportedly died by suicide in 1993 while under investigation for alleged sexual abuse of children in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Fr. Rourke's status as a priest, whereabouts, and whether he had access to children from 1983 until his death are unknown.
Fr. Finbar Kenneally was a member of the Franciscan Friars of the Province of Saint Barbara, part of what is formally known as the Order of Friars Minor. He was included in the Franciscan Friars Province of Saint Barbara's "List of Franciscan Friars from the St. Barbara Province with Credibly (sic) Claims of Sexual Abuse of a Minor" in the section "Deceased Former Province of St. Barbara Friars Who Have Been Credibly Accused." According to this list, a report wasmade in 1991 alleging that Fr. Kenneally sexually abused a minor from approximately 1962 to 1964. The same list reports that Fr. Kenneally also worked in Toronto, Canada from approximately 1941 to 1942 and from 1953 to 1954.
Fr. Gavin Griffith was a member of the Franciscan Friars of the Province of Saint Barbara, part of what is formally known as the Order of Friars Minor. He was included in the Franciscan Friars Province of Saint Barbara's "List of Franciscan Friars from the St. Barbara Province with Credibly (sic) Claims of Sexual Abuse of a Minor" in the section "Deceased Former Province of St. Barbara Friars Who Have Been Credibly Accused." According to this list, a report was made in 1987 alleging that Fr. Griffith sexually abused a minor from approximately 1979 to 1985.
Fr. Karl LeClaire was ordained a Salvatorian priest. In a 2002 lawsuit, Fr. LeClaire was accused of allegedly sexually abusing a boy for seven years beginning when he was a minor in approximately 1993 at Queen of Peace in Mesa, Arizona. In 2003, Fr. LeClaire was arrested on multiple charges relating to child sexual abuse. During the trial, another survivor accused Fr. LeClaire of allegedly sexually abusing him when he was a minor in approximately 1999 at Queen of Peace in Mesa, Arizona. Fr. LeClaire was subsequently sentenced to one year in jail and three months' probation. Fr. LeClaire was named on the Diocese of Phoenix's "Names of priests of religious communities who have served in the Diocese of Phoenix and have been laicized and/or removed from ministry by their communities due to sexual misconduct with a minor." Fr. LeClaire is currently believed to be living in Apache Junction, Arizona. His status as a priest and whether he has access to children are unknown.
Fr. Martin Gates was a member of the Franciscan Friars of the Province of Saint Barbara, part of what is formally known as the Order of Friars Minor. He was included in the Franciscan Friars Province of Saint Barbara's "List of Franciscan Friars from the St. Barbara Province with Credibly (sic) Claims of Sexual Abuse of a Minor" in the section "Deceased Former Province of St. Barbara Friars Who Have Been Credibly Accused." According to this list, reports were made in 1993 and 1995 alleging that Fr. Gates sexually abused a minor from approximately 1970 to 1989. Franciscan Friars of the Province of Saint Barbara report that Fr. Gates was living in Mexico until his death. Fr. Gate's status as a priest and whether he had access to children from 1999 until his death are unknown.
Fr. Owen da Silva was a member of the Franciscan Friars of the Province of Saint Barbara, part of what is formally known as the Order of Friars Minor. In a 2008 civil lawsuit filed against the Franciscan Friars, Old Mission Santa Barbara, Fr. da Silva was accused of child sexual abuse while he worked at St. Anthony's Seminary in Santa Barbara, California. In 2019, Fr. da Silva was included in the Franciscan Friars Province of Saint Barbara's "List of Franciscan Friars from the St. Barbara Province with Credibly (sic) Claims of Sexual Abuse of a Minor" in the section "Deceased Former Province of St. Barbara Friars Who Have Been Credibly Accused." According to this list, a report was made in 2004 alleging that Fr. da Silva sexually abused a minor from approximately 1936 to 1937.
Fr. Paul LeBrun was ordained a Holy Cross priest and has been accused of sexually abusing at least 10 children in the Diocese of Ft. Wayne-South Bend, Indiana and the Diocese of Phoenix. In 2002, four survivors came forward alleging Fr. LeBrun sexually abused them as children from approximately 1979 to 1986 when he worked at St. Therese Little Flower in South Bend, Indiana. A fifth survivor came forward to allege child sexual abuse by Fr. LeBrun in approximately 1991 while Fr. LeBrun worked at Blessed Sacrament in Tolleson, Arizona. Fr. LeBrun was subsequently arrested on charges relating to child sexual abuse in 2003. Several more survivors came forward to allege child sexual abuse by Fr. LeBrun at St. John Vianney in Avondale, Arizona. In 2005, Fr. LeBrun was convicted of sexually abusing five minor boys between approximately 1986 and 1991 at St. John Vianney in Avondale, Arizona and Blessed Sacrament in Tolleson, Arizona. Fr. LeBrun was given the maximum sentence of 111 years in prison in 2006.
An attorney for the Congregation of the Holy Cross allegedly stated that reports of child sexual abuse by Fr. LeBrun were reportedly made to the Congregation of the Holy Cross in 1987, 1993, and 1998. Fr. LeBrun was named on the Diocese of Phoenix's "Names of priests of religious communities who have served in the Diocese of Phoenix and have been laicized and/or removed from ministry by their communities due to sexual misconduct with a minor." Fr. LeBrun was also named on the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend's list of "Priests and deacons credibly accused of sexual abuse of a minor" in the section "List of the names of priests and deacons who have served in the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend and have been credibly accused of at least one act of sexual abuse of a minor." According to this list, Fr. LeBrun's faculties for ministry were removed by the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend in 2000 and he was laicized in 2008. Fr. LeBrun is currently still in prison in Arizona.
Fr. Ramon Varela was a member of the Franciscan Friars of the Province of Saint Barbara, part of what is formally known as the Order of Friars Minor. Fr. Varela was included in the Franciscan Friars Province of Saint Barbara's, "List of Franciscan Friars from the St. Barbara Province with Credibly (sic) Claims of Sexual Abuse of a Minor" in the section "Deceased Former Province of St. Barbara Friars Who Have Been Credibly Accused." According to this list, a report was made in 1994 alleging that Fr. Varela sexually abused a minor from approximately 1949 to 1979. The Franciscan Friars of the Province of Saint Barbara report that Fr. Varela was living in New Mexico until his death. His status as a priest and whether he had access to children from 1993 until his death are unknown
Fr. Remy Rudin was a member of the Franciscan Friars of the Province of Saint Barbara, part of what is formally known as the Order of Friars Minor. In a 2004 lawsuit, eight survivors accused Fr. Rudin of child sexual abuse that allegedly occurred in approximately the 1960s and early 1970s while he worked at MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility in Woodburn, Oregon. He was included in the Franciscan Friars Province of Saint Barbara's "List of Franciscan Friars from the St. Barbara Province with Credibly (sic) Claims of Sexual Abuse of a Minor" in the section "Deceased Former Province of St. Barbara Friars Who Have Been Credibly Accused." According to this list, reports were made in 2004 and 2017 alleging that Fr. Rudin sexually abused a minor from approximately 1965 to 1975.
Fr. Robert (Bob) Marsicek was ordained a Salvatorian priest. During his more than four decades in the priesthood, Fr. Marsicek worked in Arizona, Wisconsin, and California. In 2013, Fr. Marsicek was removed from St. Pius X in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin after a teacher reported possible child sexual abuse. Following the allegation, two survivors came forward to accuse Fr. Marsicek of child sexual abuse when he worked at Divine Savior in Sacramento, California in approximately the 1980s and 1990s. Another survivor came forward to allege child sexual abuse which occurred at St. Nazianz, Wisconsin. In 2017, Fr. Marsicek was charged on counts relating to child sexual abuse for the alleged acts he committed at St. Pius X in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Through a plea deal, Fr. Marsicek was sentenced to one year in prison in December 2017. Fr. Marsicek was included on the Diocese of Phoenix's "Names of priests of religious communities who have served in the Diocese of Phoenix and have been laicized and/or removed from ministry by their communities due to sexual misconduct with a minor." Fr. Marsicek's status as a priest, current whereabouts, and whether he has access to children are unknown.
Fr. Steven Henrich was a member of the Crosier Province of St. Odilia. In 2017, Fr. Henrich was removed from ministry for child sexual abuse that allegedly occurred in approximately the late 1970s in Minnesota. Fr. Henrich was included on the Diocese of Phoenix's "Names of priests of religious communities who have served in the Diocese of Phoenix and have been laicized and/or removed from ministry by their communities due to sexual misconduct with a minor." Fr. Henrich is believed to currently be living in Phoenix, Arizona. Fr. Henrich's status as a priest and whether he has access to children are unknown.
Fr. Sung Lam was reportedly a priest from the Diocese of Phnom-Penn in Cambodia who worked in the Diocese of Phoenix. Fr. Lam was named on the Diocese of Phoenix's list of "Names of priests and deacons from other dioceses who may no longer serve in the Diocese of Phoenix due to an accusation of sexual misconduct with a minor." According to this list, a report was made in 1993 accusing Fr. Lam of sexual misconduct with a minor. This list also states that Fr. Lam worked in the Vietnamese Catholic Apostolate within the Diocese of Phoenix and left the Diocese in 1994. Fr. Lam's status as a priest, current whereabouts, and whether he has access to children are unknown.
Fr. Sylvester Mancuso was a member of the Franciscan Friars of the Province of Saint Barbara, part of what is formally known as the Order of Friars Minor. In 2019, Fr. Mancuso was included in the Franciscan Friars Province of Saint Barbara's, "List of Franciscan Friars from the St. Barbara Province with Credibly (sic) Claims of Sexual Abuse of a Minor" in the section, "Deceased Former Province of St. Barbara Friars Who Have Been Credibly Accused." According to this list, reports were made in approximately 1999 and 2004 alleging that Fr. Mancuso sexually abused a minor in approximately 1961 and in the 1970s. This list also states that Fr. Mancuso worked on an Indian Mission in Arizona from approximately 1973 to 1978.
Fr. William Roper was a member of the Claretian religious order. Fr. Roper has been accused by at least one person of child sexual abuse. Fr. Roper has been named in one civil lawsuit alleging child sexual abuse in approximately 1968 to 1969. Fr. Roper is included on the Diocese of Gallup's 2014 list of clerics credibly accused of abuse of minors. Fr. Roper is also included in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles' list of priests accused of sexual misconduct involving minors. Fr. Roper's current whereabouts, status as a priest and whether he has access to children are unknown.
As a first-generation American, Hagerey has witnessed firsthand the difficulties surrounding being heard and obtaining justice in our complex legal system. Thus, Hagerey has dedicated her entire legal career to helping those without a voice. Hagerey had her own practice after receiving her license and primarily concentrated her practice in personal injury law. In 2016, Hagerey began advocating on behalf of children with special needs in conjunction with Hope4Families California. Hagerey represented children and their guardians through the Due Process proceedings in order to obtain essential services from the school district. Hagerey also empowered the families by providing the space to be heard, validating their concerns and informing them of their ongoing rights. Hagerey is honored to continue her child advocacy by seeking justice for survivors of childhood sexual abuse as an attorney at Jeff Anderson & Associates. Hagerey graduated cum laude from San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems. She then worked for a financial software company for four years before deciding to attend graduate school and pursue her passion in advocacy. She attended California Western School of Law in San Diego, California as a Dean's Merit Scholarship recipient. During law school, Hagerey was a member of the Pro Bono Honor Society as well as a volunteer clerk at the legal aid clinic of San Diego. Hagerey is now settled back into her hometown of Los Angeles and enjoys spending her free time with her extended family and traveling with her husband. Hagerey Mengistu Bar Admissions: State Bar of California
Job Titles:
- Digital Marketing & PR Strategist
Ian graduated from the Metropolitan State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with a Public Relations emphasis. Ian's commitment and passion for helping survivors is unwavering and motivates him daily. Ian's attention to detail, reliability, and ability to tackle new projects is essential for the communications team's success. In his free time, he enjoys fly fishing, camping, playing guitar, and staying active.
Jack graduated from Harvard College in 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts in Government. After college, he attended law school at Georgetown University Law Center. While in law school, he worked in an organization called Rising for Justice where he primarily represented tenants who were facing eviction in the District of Columbia. Jack also did work on behalf of Plaintiffs for several firms dealing with a wide range of legal issues including international narcoterrorism and civil rights cases against law enforcement.
Jeff Anderson is widely recognized as a pioneer in sexual abuse litigation and a champion of survivors of childhood sexual abuse. In nearly four decades as a litigator, Jeff has represented thousands of survivors and their families and has tried over two hundred and fifty jury trials to verdict across the country through the crucible of the courtroom. Known for his optimism, energy and compassion for his clients, Jeff is credited with being instrumental in exposing the large scale cover-up of pedophile priests in the early 1980's. As one of the first trial lawyers in America to publicly and aggressively initiate lawsuits against sexual predators-and focusing on bringing heat and light on the offenders and the institutions that conceal and protect them.
Jeff has received many awards and recognitions but his greatest honor is the trust reposed in him by survivors and their families. From them he draws strength, courage and inspiration in the shared journey of hope and healing.
Anderson's tireless efforts extend beyond the courtroom where he is a frequent lecturer, survivor advocate and author who advocates for legislative and judicial protection of children and the prevention of childhood sexual abuse.
Since beginning her work with survivors of sexual abuse in 2008, Jennifer has dedicated the majority of her legal practice to the child protection movement with an exclusive focus on personal injury matters involving childhood sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and civil rights violations. She has represented hundreds of survivors in cases against a variety of defendants, including individual perpetrators and the entities that employed them (public schools, private schools, youth sports organizations, religious institutions, and residential care facilities). Jennifer has been heavily involved in some of the most significant sexual abuse cases across the country and is passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of those she represents and, by extension, children everywhere.
Jennifer is a certified Dispute Resolutions Program Act (DRPA) Mediator and has served as a mediator for the Riverside County Superior Court and in private practice. Jennifer has also authored articles on legal issues in various publications throughout California.
Education:
University of San Diego, B.B.A., Cum Laude (2010)
Chapman University, Dale E. Fowler School of Law, J.D., Cum Laude (2014)
Jordan graduated from the University of Minnesota with her Bachelor of Arts in English and Political Science. She is currently enrolled at Mitchell Hamline School of Law and is pursuing a law degree. Jordan's attention to detail, thoroughness and passion for the mission make her a valuable member of the team. Prior to working at Jeff Anderson & Associates, Jordan worked in the hospitality industry and volunteered at Communities United Against Police Brutality. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, cooking, and weightlifting.
Josh Peck is a dedicated advocate with a proven commitment to service who joined Jeff Anderson & Associates in 2013. He is honored to work with survivors of childhood sexual abuse in a collaborative effort to prevent further harm to children, and to hold accountable those who perpetuate and allow such abuse to continue.
A native of White Bear Lake, Minnesota, Josh spent four years in the United States Navy before graduating summa cum laude from San Diego State University. After college he returned to his home state to attend Hamline University School of Law in St. Paul. While in law school Josh served as an Associate Editor of Hamline's Journal of Public Law and Policy, earned honors in Legal Research and Writing, volunteered at the National Child Protection Training Center, and clerked at a law firm advocating for disabled and injured clients. Josh also played on Hamline Law's hockey team and participated in an annual charity fundraiser game between Hamline and William Mitchell College of Law.
Josh brings passion and experience in child protection to the firm. He believes strongly in what Jeff Anderson & Associates stands for and will work diligently to protect children and assist survivors of abuse in their journey of healing.
A graduate of Winona State University, Kellie brings to the firm a fresh perspective and background in the legal field and is willing to go the extra mile to advocate for our clients. Kellie's previous experience includes work with a civil litigation firm in La Crosse, Wisconsin and an internship with the Ramsey County Attorney's Office in the Child Protection Unit. She has worked with family members of abused and neglected children and brings a calm, understanding disposition to the work that we do here at Jeff Anderson & Associates. Kellie resides in St. Paul and enjoys cooking, reading and traveling.
Lakeesha's experience as a litigation paralegal is vital to our mission; her experience interviewing and then maintaining client relationships is invaluable; and her attention to detail in every aspect of case management is important to the overall success of our team.
In addition to her Paralegal certification, Lakeesha has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with minors in History and Philosophy.
Job Titles:
- Client Communications Advocate
Lauren is a New York State licensed master social worker (LMSW) who obtained her Master's degree in Social Work from Adelphi University in Garden City, NY. Lauren has over a decade of experience working directly with survivors of interpersonal violence in multiple capacities, including as an advocate, forensic interviewer, case coordinator, and therapist. Prior to working at Jeff Anderson & Associates, Lauren worked at two different child advocacy centers as part of the team responding to allegations and suspicions of youth being sexually abused. Lauren is passionate in her advocacy for both the protection of children and empowerment of adult survivors as they navigate their journey of healing from childhood trauma Lauren is an avid reader who enjoys traveling, podcasts, long walks with her dog, and spending time with family and friends.
Lisa was born and raised in New York and has been working in the legal field since 1996. Lisa began working in the child protection space in 2004 in Miami and continued when she moved back to New York. When she learned the law finally changed in New York for victims of sexual abuse, she immediately knew she wanted to work for the cause again and be a part of keeping kids safe and helping survivors on their journey to healing and justice. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family, traveling, and finding fun things to do in New York.
With great attention to detail and an incredible work ethic Melissa has kept things in impeccable order at Jeff Anderson & Associates for more than eight years.
With a finely-tuned eye for the tiniest details and a knack for deftly managing multiple processes at varying altitudes, Michelle has handled all of our day-to-day financial operations with precision and efficiency since joining the firm in 2018. She credits these abilities, in part, to her Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Metropolitan State University. Michelle is continually inspired by the passion of her colleagues and is energized by our collective, ongoing dedication to the fight for survivors' rights. Outside of the office, you may very likely find her golfing, spending time with friends and family, or relaxing at the lake.
Michelle has been the lead Front Line Responder and Office Coordinator at Jeff Anderson & Associates since 2004. Before coming to the firm, Michelle worked with adolescents as a client representative for Face to Face Health and Counseling Inc., in St. Paul, Minnesota. Michelle leads with empathy, and demonstrates patience and compassion when communicating with survivors. Michelle is often the first person a survivor will confide in about their abuse, and she makes every survivor feel believed, safe and heard. Outside of the office, you will find Michelle embarking on many adventures, such as golfing, boating, traveling and spending time with her friends and family, and most importantly…being a die-hard Vikings fan.
Mike Finnegan has worked for over a decade with hundreds of courageous survivors of childhood sexual abuse to support them in their effort to reclaim power stolen from them as children. Using the civil courts to aid victims seeking accountability and healing, Mike has handled thousands of cases against individual perpetrators and institutions that protected them.
Mike's work has resulted in the release of thousands of previously secret documents about childhood sexual abuse in organizations and resulted in numerous significant recoveries for his clients. Most recently, Mike has played a pivotal role in forcing the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis to release over 50,000 documents pertaining to priests accused of sexual abuse. A creative thinker and keen legal strategist, Mike was an attorney of record in a federal lawsuit naming the Vatican that resulted in the Vatican being ordered to produce documents in a child sex abuse case for the first time.
Mike grew up in West St. Paul, Minnesota and began his legal career at Jeff Anderson & Associates in 2002 as a law clerk and in 2004 as an Attorney. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Yale University in 1999 and his Juris Doctorate from William Mitchell College of Law in 2004.
As a seasoned trial attorney in some of the most meaningful sexual abuse litigation in the country, Mike vigorously advocates on behalf of survivors of childhood sexual abuse perpetrated by those in a position of power. Mike's work is a prominent force on behalf of victims' rights. His practice forces accountability upon the individuals and institutions responsible for harming children.
Mike is instrumental in cases against the Catholic Church, Boy Scouts, camps, private schools and other powerful institutions and individuals. His cases have forced disclosure of the identities of previously secret pedophiles and led to criminal prosecutions. The public release of thousands of previously secret documents about clergy sex abuse was a result of Mike's tireless work. As a caring advocate, Mike stands with survivors of abuse against powerful and prominent defendants including a great many Archdioceses and Dioceses throughout the country.
Known for his individual attention and positivity, Mike draws strength from the survivors he works with. Numerous national publications and television stations have interviewed him. He works on behalf of victims' organizations and trains other advocates through the National Crime Victim Bar Association.
Mike has represented hundreds of survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Prominent recent cases include:
Settlement with the Diocese of Wilmington and several independent religious orders.
Settlement with the Diocese of Honolulu and several independent religious orders.
Settlement on behalf of hundreds of survivors with the Irish Christian Brothers who were forced into bankruptcy.
Cases and/or settlements involving major dioceses and churches including: the Archdiocese of New York; Diocese of Brooklyn; Diocese of Syracuse; Diocese of Newark; Archdiocese of Los Angeles; Diocese of Bridgeport; Archdiocese of Philadelphia; Diocese of Providence and others.
Cutting-edge litigation seeking to inhibit institutions from keeping the identities and whereabouts of pedophiles secret.
Mike attended the University of California at Irvine where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 1997. Michael's Juris Doctorate was awarded cum laude from Whittier Law School in 2000. During law school he was a member of the law review and his work was published. Michael is a member of the State Bar of California since 2000. He is also a member of the state bars of New York, Pennsylvania and Texas. He is admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court.
Mike was raised in southern California and has been a long time resident of New York. As an avid environmentalist, Mike spends much of his free time outside with his family.
Molly joined Jeff Anderson & Associates in October 2014 after serving for three years as a Judicial Law Clerk for the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Before becoming a lawyer, Molly's passion for helping children led her to a 10-year career working with children on the autism spectrum and with other developmental disabilities. Molly worked one-on-one with children and taught and counseled their parents in the United States and internationally. Molly's enthusiasm about positively impacting the world, her experience helping those facing adversity, and her dedication to improving the lives of others makes her a welcome addition to the Jeff Anderson & Associates team.
Molly graduated summa cum laude from William Mitchell College of Law in 2010. During law school, Molly worked as a summer associate at Halleland, Lewis, Nilan and Johnson and was an Assistant Editor on the Law Review. Before law school, Molly's interest in advocating for children influenced her undergraduate studies; she majored in Women's Studies and graduated magna cum laude from the College of St. Catherine.
Molly is certified as a Rule 114 Qualified Neutral, and she enjoys volunteering as a mediator in Hennepin County Harassment Court and with youth in restorative justice community mediations. Molly is a member of Minnesota Women Lawyers and the Minnesota Association for Justice.
Job Titles:
- Certified Paralegal
- Legal Administration Assistant
Monica has been a Certified Paralegal for 8 years. She's worked at firms dealing with construction defects, consumer class actions, public guardianship, attorney guardianship, estate planning, estate administration, real estate, and mostly collection litigation. Monica volunteered at the Ventura County Courthouse in their Family Self-Help Center. The Help Center experience has been my favorite so far.
Monica's journey into the legal career field beganas a child as she was in foster care and later adopted. The court system has always been a large but positive force in her life. Because of her past, she wanted to give back, and help make a positive impact on the lives and healing processes of survivors. Monica has six siblings, and has 17 nieces and nephews (going on 19)Monica enjoys spending time with family and friends, Psychology, reading, cooking, singing, trying new things, going to museums, fishing and kayaking.
Nahid A. Shaikh has dedicated her career to representing injured people against powerful, well-funded, influential opponents. Since joining Jeff Anderson and Associates, she has focused her entire practice on advocating for and empowering survivors of childhood sexual abuse. She has represented hundreds of survivors in cases against a variety of defendants, including individual perpetrators and the entities that employed them.
Prior to joining Jeff Anderson and Associates, Nahid worked at two nationally recognized plaintiffs' law firms where she represented clients in various legal areas through every stage of litigation.
Nahid graduated from Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law magna cum laude and in the top five percent of her class. While at Cardozo, Nahid was a member of the Cardozo Law Review and served as a full-time judicial intern for the Honorable Patty Shwartz on the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. Nahid has been named a New York Metro Rising Star by SuperLawyers for the last five years.
Parker brings several years of civil litigation experience to our firm. Parker's success as a paralegal can be attributed to his previous experience in law enforcement, accounting, and private investigation. In addition to his paralegal certificate, Parker completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. His compassion for survivors and intolerance for injustice drives him to help our clients find a path to healing and closure. Parker epitomizes a phrase commonly heard around our firm, "We lead with our hearts and steer with our heads." Outside of work, Parker stays active playing golf, hiking, working out, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
Pat Stoneking is a trial attorney who has always fought for people against powerful interests. Pat has significant courtroom experience and has tried cases to verdicts in multiple states and represented injured people in some of the most complicated injury suits in some of the most difficult venues. In addition to his trial work, Pat has substantial appellate experience, including wins on important injury matters that have changed the law for the better. An opposing attorney accurately described Pat as a "true believer," and in addition to the work he does for his own clients, Pat has successfully advocated on behalf of all injured people through his work with the Minnesota Association for Justice Amicus Committee, which he currently co-chairs. Since 2016, Pat has also served on the board of directors for Children's Heartlink, a non-profit dedicated to the treatment of children born with congenital heart disease around the world.
Pat is an honors graduate of the University of Minnesota Law School. He is a member of the Board of Governors at the Minnesota Association for Justice, a Certified Specialist in Civil Trial Law by the Minnesota Bar Association, and was named a SuperLawyer in 2021 and 2022.
Having 30 years experience investigating, researching and publishing on clerical sexual assaults of minors, Patrick is the only former Benedictine Monk and Priest imbedded in a litigation firm.He listens with the ear of his heart and knows first-hand the Institutional and cultural barriers survivors face. Trained in Philosophy, Theology and Canon Law, Patrick was a monk at Saint John's Abbey and Priest/Canonical Attorney in the Archdiocese of Saint Paul & Minneapolis and often assists investigative journalists at the AP, LA Times, CNN and ICIJ. Patrick joined the firm in 2012 as a force multiplier in litigation as well as a subject matter expert on Artificial Intelligence and Stem Cell research projects. Patrick has had the privilege to listen to Survivors from Alaska to Ireland and can think of no higher calling than Child Protection and healing. Patrick resides in Los Angeles, CA enjoying spending free time with his adult daughter, experiencing the Getty and some occasional Johnnie Football.
Job Titles:
- Client Communications Advocate
Rachel brings several years of advocacy experience to our firm. Rachel's success as a Client Communications Advocate can be attributed to her previous experience as a Victim Advocate at various District Attorney offices. In addition to her experience as an advocate, Rachel completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications and a Master's in Business Administration degree. Her passion for justice, loud voice for survivors and being relationship-oriented, helps Rachel connect with her clients on a deeper level. Rachel believes that every survivor that comes forward helps prevent a future child from abuse. Outside of work, Rachel stays active playing soccer, working out, learning Arabic, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
Sandy provides part-time accounting support to the firm. She has a Bachelor's of Science degree in Accounting from the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management and is a licensed CPA. Her background includes over 25 years of experience providing tax and accounting services to businesses and individuals. Sandy brings positivity and professionalism to her role. She enjoys the vibrant, collaborative culture of the firm and is grateful to be part of the work we do to help survivors. Outside of work, Sandy serves as a volunteer board member and is an advocate for mental health awareness. She enjoys working with textiles, biking on Minnesota's beautiful trails, and spending precious time with family and friends.
Job Titles:
- Client Communications Advocate
Sharetta brings years of advocacy experience to the firm. Her previous experience as an investigator, caseworker, director, and small business owner attributes to her tenacity. Sharetta completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology, a post-bachelor certification in Child Rights & Advocacy, and also holds a Master's Degree in Public Administration. Outside of work, Sharetta enjoys spending time with family and friends.
Stacey Benson joined the firm in 2011 as a paralegal and worked as the firm's Communications Director. After graduating cum laude from Mitchell Hamline School of Law in St. Paul, Stacey turned her focus to practicing law, but is still involved in the firm's communications efforts. Stacey has dedicated her entire legal career to advocating for survivors of child sexual abuse.
With an extensive background in the legal and investigative fields and having worked as an investigator and as an assistant to a California county coroner, Stacey adds great value to our firm. She brings compassion and understanding to her work having volunteered at CornerHouse, a child abuse evaluation and training center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She also worked as a volunteer investigator with the internationally recognized Innocence Project.
Stacey was a member of the trial teams that successfully litigated cases against religious institutions in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Stacey was designated a Super Lawyers "Rising Star" in Minnesota in 2021.
Currently, Stacey is advocating for hundreds of sexual abuse survivors in New York and is working to achieve a fair and equitable resolution in the Diocese of Buffalo Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization.
Stacey holds a Master of Science degree in Forensic Science from the University of New Haven, Connecticut and completed her bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and Certificate of Forensic Science at Hamline University in St. Paul. Stacey resides in St. Paul with her partner and spends her free time traveling the world.
Taylor Stippel joined Jeff Anderson & Associates as an attorney in 2017 after working at the firm as an intern and law clerk since 2013. She is grateful for the opportunity to work with survivors to make the world safer for children today and in the future.
Taylor has advocated on behalf of hundreds of survivors to hold accountable perpetrators of abuse and the institutions that shelter and enable them. Licensed in Minnesota and New York, her practice currently focuses on litigating against religious institutions in upstate New York, including the Roman Catholic Dioceses of Albany, Syracuse, and Ogdensburg. Taylor is leading Jeff Anderson & Associates' advocacy on behalf of survivors in the Diocese of Syracuse Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization.
Taylor has been recognized for her work on behalf of survivors, including being designated a Super Lawyers "Rising Star" in 2021 in Minnesota. She is a member of the National Crime Victims Bar Association, Minnesota Association for Justice and New York State Bar Association.
Taylor graduated magna cum laude from the University of Minnesota Law School and is a member of the Order of the Coif. Throughout law school, she worked as a student attorney representing clients in family and employment law matters in the Civil Practice Clinic. She was also a managing editor for the Minnesota Law Review and authored a note published in the Minnesota Law Review's Volume 101. Prior to attending law school, Taylor graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor's degree from Michigan Technological University. Taylor spends her free time with her husband in their backyard, ensuring that their mischievous dog doesn't cause too much of a ruckus.
Job Titles:
- Legal / Executive Assistant
Therese has worked for Jeff Anderson for over nineteen years and currently serves as a legal and executive assistant to Jeff Anderson, Mike Finnegan, and Elin Lindstrom. In the ever demanding world of a major litigation environment, Therese provides a capable and steady hand that keeps the firm focused and on time.
Tim is an experienced paralegal with a background in civil litigation and criminal prosecution. Tim began his career as a journalist and uses his interviewing and writing abilities to help the firm and our clients achieve success.
With previous experience in advocating for injured persons, Tim works on behalf of our clients diligently and with great respect. Tim has a Paralegal bachelor's degree from Winona State University and a bachelor's degree in Mass Communications from St. Cloud State University. Outside of work, Tim enjoys live music, reading, playing hockey, running and all outdoor activities.
Trusha Patel Goffe has dedicated her legal career to advocating for children and brave survivors of child sexual abuse. As an attorney at Jeff Anderson & Associates, she has worked on hundreds of cases against schools, youth organizations, and religious institutions that concealed sex offenders and allowed perpetrators to abuse children.
Trusha received her undergraduate degree from the University of Florida in 2006 and her J.D. from University of St. Thomas in 2010. Prior to joining Jeff Anderson & Associates, Trusha served as a law clerk to Judge David Higgs in the 2nd Judicial District of Minnesota and as an Assistant County Attorney in the Ramsey County Attorney's Office's Child Protection Unit where she gained significant insight into the court system and learned valuable litigation strategies. Trusha is a member of the Minnesota Association for Justice and the National Crime Victims Bar Association.