Chapter 11 Reorganization ORIGINAL STATEMENT Archdiocese of Milwaukee January 4, 2011 Today, January 4, 2011, after consultation with archdiocesan advisors, Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki directed attorneys for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee to file a petition for a Chapter 11 reorganization of its financial affairs under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code.   This action is occurring because priest-perpetrators sexually abused minors. Financial claims pending against the archdiocese's means, recent failure to reach a mediated resolution with victims/survivors involved in lawsuits against the archdiocese, along with the November court decision that insurance companies are not bound to contribute to any financial settlement, made it clear that reorganization is the best way to fairly and equitably fulfill obligations. In taking this action, there are two goals. First, the archdiocese wants to fairly compensate victims/survivors with unresolved claims  – both those with claims pending and those who will come forward because of this proceeding.  Second, the archdiocese wants to carry on the essential ministries of the archdiocese in order to continue to meet the needs of parishes, parishioners and others who rely upon the Church for assistance. A Chapter 11 reorganization is the best way to achieve these goals. It enables the archdiocese to use available funds to compensate all victims/survivors with unresolved claims in a single process overseen by a court, ensuring that all are treated equitably. In addition, by serving as a final call for legal claims against the archdiocese, the proceeding will allow the Church to move forward on stable financial ground, focused on its Gospel mission. For more information on this topic, please view the resources available on this page. If you have questions or concerns, please contact us at reorg@archmil.org.

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