LDS abuse records when a name is missing

What if I do not know the full name?

Write down the name or role you actually remember. Mark gaps and uncertainty. A civil claim needs its own facts and evidence.

Note the location, approximate period and how you knew the person. If you learned a name later, keep the source of that information. Do not turn a likely match in an online list into a confirmed identification.

Does a Church role identify the legal defendant?

The LDS order describes different Church relationships. It does not find every person in a role liable. Ask who the proposed claim would name and why.

A person may have had several roles at once. Separate those you knew at the time from later information. Ask how a school, mission or youth program fits the actual events.

Should I contact the person to confirm a name?

Do not contact the alleged abuser to investigate. Ask a lawyer how missing facts can be sought safely. A case may involve records and witnesses.

Keep existing messages and other copies you already have. Do not pressure another survivor to identify someone or give graphic details. Ask the lawyer what an uncertain name means for the next step.

Will names stay private during the inquiry?

Ask who can see the account before you share it. Federal court filings often become public. Specific protection needs its own check.

Do not post another survivor’s name in a public comment or social thread. Ask how a lawyer would protect sensitive names in records and filings. A promise about a first call does not settle later court access.

How should I label a possible name match?

Keep the source beside the possible name and mark it uncertain. Ask the lawyer how that lead can be checked safely.

What should the records-work agreement explain?

Ask who would seek missing names or records and how. Check its costs before approving more work or access to your files.