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1 800 686 9921
Father Leo J. O’Neil served in the Diocese of Worcester, Massachusetts. He was named in a 2004 civil lawsuit alleging that he sexually abused a 14-year-old boy who was living at the Stetson Home for Boys in Barre in 1975. At the time, Father O’Neil was assigned to St. Joseph Church in Barre. The lawsuit was filed after he had retired from active ministry. Father O’Neil passed away in February 2005; the civil case was set for jury trial in November 2006.
These allegations reflect a pattern familiar to many survivors of clergy abuse — one in which years or even decades pass before a survivor is able to connect past abuse to its lasting impact and come forward. The public record of these allegations underscores the importance of institutional accountability and transparency.
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.
Survivors of childhood sexual abuse by clergy face long-term emotional, psychological, and relational consequences that can persist well into adulthood. If you or a loved one were abused by Father O’Neil, you are encouraged to consult with an attorney to understand what civil legal options may be available to you.
Even when an accused priest has passed away, Massachusetts law may provide avenues for civil action against the diocese or other institutional defendants. Civil proceedings in cases like these may examine whether the diocese adequately supervised its clergy and responded appropriately to allegations of abuse. Where oversight was insufficient or complaints went unaddressed, the institution may bear legal responsibility.
Civil litigation may also serve a broader purpose: creating a documented public record of abuse, holding institutions accountable, and contributing to reforms that protect children in religious and community settings. For many survivors, legal recognition of what occurred is an important step in reclaiming their story and affirming the courage it takes to come forward.
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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