Cour d'appel de Paris

The Cour d'appel de Paris (Paris Court of Appeal) is a court of appeal in Paris, France. It is newsworthy due to its recent ruling in a case involving Jean-Michel di Falco, the former bishop of Gap. The court ordered Di Falco to pay nearly €200,000 in damages to Pierre-Jean Pagès, who accused the bishop of sexual assault dating back to the 1970s when Pagès was a student. This civil case proceeded despite the criminal statute of limitations having expired. The court's decision marks a significant development in Pagès' long pursuit of justice and accountability for the alleged abuse. The ruling is relevant as it highlights the ability of civil courts to address historical allegations of sexual abuse even when criminal prosecution is not possible, and it provides a measure of compensation to the victim.