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1 800 686 9921
Free CASE REVIEWS
1 800 686 9921
Father Earl Albert Victor Hebert served in the Diocese of Springfield, Massachusetts for decades, with assignments spanning from 1953 through 2003. He died on November 2, 2015, at the age of 92. Following his death, allegations emerged that he had sexually abused a child in 1972, at a time when he was assigned to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Holyoke.
The Diocese of Springfield publicly named Father Hebert as credibly accused on its updated disclosure list on June 2, 2021. The Diocese determined the allegation to be credible — a standard comparable to a grand jury finding of probable cause — though no formal legal or canonical determination of guilt was made, as Father Hebert died before any proceedings could be initiated. The allegation was made posthumously, reflecting what research broadly recognizes as a pattern in clergy abuse cases: survivors may not come forward until years or even decades after the abuse occurred.
Survivors of childhood clergy abuse may carry long-lasting harm, including effects on emotional well-being, relationships, and trust in institutions. Individuals who believe they may have been harmed by Father Hebert, or by others in the Diocese, are encouraged to seek both emotional support and legal guidance.
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.
Even when sexual abuse occurred decades ago or the perpetrator has since died, survivors may still have legal options under Massachusetts civil law. Civil claims against institutions such as the Diocese of Springfield may be available for negligent supervision, failure to act on known risks, or other failures to protect children in their care. An attorney can help evaluate whether a civil claim may be viable based on the specific facts of your situation.
Civil litigation, where available, may offer pathways to financial recovery, formal acknowledgment of harm, and public documentation of institutional misconduct. It may also provide survivors with an opportunity to participate in holding institutions accountable for past failures — contributing to transparency and encouraging reforms that help protect future generations. Herman Law is committed to helping survivors understand their rights and options. If you or someone you know was abused by Father Hebert or another member of the Diocese of Springfield clergy, we encourage you to reach out for a confidential consultation.
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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