Ballard Spahr partner Gina Maisto Smith believes her Catholicism adds credibility to her role as lead investigator in the Philadelphia Archdiocese's clergy sex abuse scandal. On her recommendation, Cardinal Justin Rigali announced March 8 that 21 priests were placed on administrative leave from active ministry pending further investigation.
"My Catholicism gives me a voice that is more likely to be heard and accepted in making recommendations," Ms. Smith said. "At the same time, I bring to the task an extensive background and experience in child sex abuse."