Judge asks diocese to hold off on bankruptcy

A judge attempting to fashion a settlement between the San Diego Roman Catholic Diocese and plaintiffs who have alleged sexual abuse by priests asked Monday that the diocese not file for bankruptcy before a session set for Friday.

Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Anthony Mohr made the request after a negotiating session between lawyers for the diocese and the plaintiffs. Bishop Robert Brom has said the diocese might file for Chapter 11 reorganization in the face of lawsuits by 150 people.

San Diego attorney Andrea Leavitt, representing eight plaintiffs, said she believes it best for both sides to reach a settlement. To do otherwise, she said, “would continue to victimize these victims who had their childhood robbed by abuse.”