Jim,
1. As I just replied to Frank, until the Catholic church scandal last year truly broke out, there was no interest generally to get involved with a religious organizational issue, especially JWs because the organizations reputation has been legally spotless and contributing to the 20th century freedom issues - some 42 US Supreme Court cases addressed. I first started the case in 1996 and even going to school for legal assistance, it took me some 2 years to find a lawyer who would take it. I have a list of women's organizations, anti-violence adm., trusts and grant funds, etc that I wrote and called on for help and direction. Most of the time I was told to give up; the issues being too great.
2. This case would help set precedent legally. It is one thing to sue an abuser, but to put blame on individuals who were in a position to help and who not only closed their eyes but to date are perpetrating abuse by refusing to take responsiblity while further using slander and other devious means to "get rid of the victim" (you well know the procedure from all the victims that have spoken out) is outrageous.
Sure, there is no reason why I should be disabled before my time and there is no reason that I shoud be in financial hardship because of what others got away with, so of course I am requesting damages in my lawsuit for injury. I have held out because an offer could have been made me last year but I said before the judge, 'I don't want to take some settlement, agree to a gag order and have to go on as if all is well. This case has to be heard, not just for me but for all the other victims out there.' Therefore I sacrificed a pretrial settlement.
3, I wouldn't waste time if I didn't think this case was right, just and with a good chance to win. As for funds there has already been tens of thousands invested. (By the way, I'm not asking anyone for thousands or hundreds or even fifties (smile)). I approached it more in light of 'here I have a piece of my hard work and creative writing (41 pages) for sale if anyone wants to buy it and help at the same time'. People write books all the time and sell them. True, its drier than a novel, but it is seriously unique and the legal arguments may be helpful to others who are considering a case or would like to share with an attorney in their area.
Is this helpful?
I'll tell you what. If anyone contributed, I would keep their address if they would like, and if and when I win, I will return 7 fold and if I don't get much at least I can double it. Now isn't that a good deal?
Thanks - NM