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1 800 686 9921
Free CASE REVIEWS
1 800 686 9921
Deacon James A. Martone was ordained as a permanent deacon in 1983 and served within the Diocese of Springfield, Massachusetts. In 2004, he was placed on leave following allegations that he sexually abused a child beginning in 1991 and continuing for several years. At the time, he was also serving as a business manager for a third parish and was placed on leave from that position pending the outcome of the investigation.
In May 2005, the Diocese announced that its Review Board had found the allegations credible. Deacon Martone was permanently removed from ministry. His name was later included on the Diocese’s list of credibly accused clergy. According to that listing, he died in 2021.
The Diocese’s finding of credibility reflects its internal determination under church procedures. Survivors connected to any period of Deacon Martone’s ministry or parish employment may have legal rights under Massachusetts law, independent of church discipline.
With decades of dedicated advocacy, we have held abusers and institutions accountable, helping survivors secure justice and the resources to move forward.
For over two decades, we have focused solely on advocating for survivors, combining legal skill with compassion to guide them toward justice and healing.
We are honored to have guided thousands of survivors through the legal process, offering support, advocacy, and the resources they need to reclaim their lives.
When a diocesan review board finds allegations credible and a cleric is permanently removed from ministry, survivors may experience a measure of validation — though the lasting harm of abuse remains. Civil court provides a separate forum where survivors may seek accountability beyond internal church processes.
In Massachusetts, survivors of childhood sexual abuse may be able to pursue civil claims that examine both the conduct of the individual and the actions of the institution responsible for supervision. Courts may review how complaints were handled, whether safeguards were in place, and whether leadership acted promptly once allegations were raised.
Even if a cleric has been permanently removed or has died, civil claims may proceed against the institution if there are legal grounds. A finding of credibility within a diocese does not, in itself, determine civil liability, but it may become part of the broader record considered in court.
Massachusetts law recognizes that disclosure of childhood abuse is often delayed. Survivors may come forward years or decades after the alleged events. Civil remedies may remain available depending on the timing and circumstances of the claim.
For many survivors, civil proceedings may offer more than financial compensation. They can provide acknowledgment, documentation of harm, and greater transparency regarding institutional response. The legal system can provide a structured path toward accountability and recognition.
Every survivor deserves compassion and acknowledgment. This video explains how civil law empowers individuals harmed by clergy abuse to pursue accountability and closure. Justice extends beyond courtrooms; it allows survivors to reclaim their voice and aids them on their healing journey. Survivors across Massachusetts continue proving that truth carries strength and healing begins with being heard.
Our experienced and compassionate team of attorneys, investigators, paralegals, and support staff have extensive training in working with sexual abuse victims.
These cases are complex; however, our team are experts in these types of cases and will diligently ensure our clients are compensated for full and fair value. We always do our best to help our clients heal by giving them a voice
and helping them seek a measure of justice.
Massachusetts Disclaimer:Herman Law has a multistate practice representing victims of sexual abuse in civil cases. A Herman Law attorney is licensed to practice law in Massachusetts. Each case is different, and results in prior cases do not assure a similar outcome in future cases. If there is no recovery, no fees or expenses will be charged. Attorney Advertising by Jenny Rossman.
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