Former Child Bride Sues FLDS Church, Warren Jeffs, and UEP for $30-40 Million

A former child bride has filed a lawsuit against the Fundamentalist LDS (FLDS) church, its leader Warren Jeffs, and the United Effort Plan (UEP) Trust, seeking damages between $30 million and $40 million. The case centers on the claim that she was forced to marry her cousin when she was 14 years old, a practice that has been central to the FLDS community’s traditions.

A Utah judge has ordered the FLDS church to post a $5 million bond to secure a trust, which will hold the funds while the legal proceedings continue. The judge’s decision was made to ensure that if the court ultimately rules in favor of the plaintiff, there will be sufficient money available to cover any settlement.

The lawsuit has been accepted for review by the Utah Supreme Court, though the court’s decision could take several years to reach. The UEP Trust, which is a financial arm of the FLDS church, has been ordered to pay the bond, further complicating the legal landscape of the case.

The case highlights the ongoing legal challenges faced by the FLDS community, particularly regarding allegations of child marriage and other practices that have drawn scrutiny from both legal and public authorities. The lawsuit underscores the broader implications of these practices on individuals and the community’s legal standing.

The legal battle reflects the complex interplay between religious freedom and individual rights, as well as the role of financial institutions in supporting or challenging such practices. The case also brings attention to the need for accountability and justice in matters involving the vulnerable.

The story echoes the biblical call to “do justice, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8), reminding us of the importance of protecting those who are most vulnerable and ensuring that justice is served in all circumstances.

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