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1 800 686 9921
Free CASE REVIEWS
1 800 686 9921
Father Mario Pezzotti, originally from Italy, was accused of sexually abusing students at Xaverian Missionary Faith High School in Holliston, Massachusetts, beginning in 1959 and continuing into the early 1970s. Former students came forward in 1993 with multiple allegations spanning several years. At the time those allegations surfaced, Pezzotti had been working in Brazil with Kayapo Indian children and in a supervisory role over other priests — raising serious questions about institutional oversight given his continued access to minors.
Around the time the allegations came forward in 1993, Pezzotti provided a handwritten apology to one Massachusetts victim. Despite this written acknowledgment, additional victims came forward. Civil suits were filed against him and the Xaverian Order, which admitted knowledge of two other claims. In 2002, another woman reported that Pezzotti had abused her in the early 1970s. His continued presence in positions of trust outside Massachusetts — including placements in Brazil and at Xaverian headquarters in Parma, Italy — raised concerns about institutional oversight and the movement of clergy following abuse allegations.
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.
For many survivors, the effects of clergy sexual abuse persist for decades — shaping relationships, mental health, and quality of life long after the abuse occurred. Coming forward is a profound and difficult step, and every survivor’s experience deserves to be acknowledged and taken seriously.
Survivors who were sexually abused by Father Pezzotti may have the right to pursue civil claims, depending on applicable statutes of limitations and other legal factors specific to their situation. Civil litigation may provide an opportunity to hold not only the individual priest accountable, but potentially also the Xaverian Order and, in some circumstances, other supervising institutions, for any failure to prevent or respond appropriately to known misconduct. An experienced attorney can help evaluate whether such claims may be viable in your specific case.
Through civil proceedings, survivors may seek compensation for the harm they endured and contribute to a more complete public record of the abuse and the institutional response. Legal action can also support broader awareness and systemic reform, and may help reinforce safeguards that protect future generations.
By coming forward, survivors assert their voice and demand accountability from the institutions that placed clergy in positions of trust over minors. Herman Law is committed to standing alongside survivors every step of the way.
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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