Free CASE REVIEWS
1 800 686 9921
Free CASE REVIEWS
1 800 686 9921
Father Paul J. Doherty was ordained in 1995 at age 47 for the Diocese of Worcester, Massachusetts. In November 2006, Doherty was placed on administrative leave after he informed Bishop Robert J. McManus that he had engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with a minor more than 30 years prior — conduct that occurred long before his ordination.
The Diocese reported the matter to the Worcester District Attorney’s office, and Doherty subsequently retired and relocated to Maine.
His case is among the public records documenting clergy accused of sexual misconduct in the Diocese of Worcester, which has faced multiple clergy abuse claims over the past several decades. Although no criminal charges were brought, the admission and the Diocese’s response have raised ongoing concerns about clergy sexual abuse and institutional accountability within the diocese.
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 sexual abuse by Father Paul J. Doherty may be able to pursue civil claims against the Diocese of Worcester. The Diocese received Doherty’s own admission of inappropriate sexual behavior with a minor and reported the matter to law enforcement in November 2006. That admission, and the Diocese’s subsequent decision to place him on administrative leave, may be relevant to questions about institutional oversight during his ministry.
The circumstances of this case — including Doherty’s ordination at age 47 and his admission that the conduct predated his priesthood by decades — raise questions that civil litigation may be able to explore, including what screening processes were in place at the time of his ordination and how the Diocese responded once the admission was made.
The fact that Doherty came forward voluntarily does not necessarily resolve questions about the Diocese’s institutional oversight during his ministry — questions that civil proceedings may be positioned to examine. Civil litigation may compel the Diocese to produce records related to both the ordination process and the administrative response to his 2006 admission.
Civil proceedings may allow survivors to seek compensation for therapy and long-term harm, while also creating an opportunity for the Diocese’s knowledge and response across the full timeline of his ministry to be examined through an independent legal process.
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.
Attorney Advertising Disclaimer
This is an advertisement for legal services. The content provided is for general informational purposes only and may not reflect current legal developments. It is not intended as legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Legal outcomes depend on numerous factors, including specific facts, applicable law, opposing parties, and other circumstances. Do not take action based solely on the information in this advertisement. Every case is different. Any discussion of past results is for illustrative purposes only and does not guarantee or predict similar outcomes in future cases. No statement in this advertisement should be interpreted as a promise or guarantee of results. In the absence of a recovery, no fee will be charged to you and you will not be liable for any litigation expenses.
Attorney-Client Relationship & Confidentiality
Viewing this advertisement, contacting our firm, or requesting a consultation does not create an attorney-client relationship. Such a relationship is only formed through a signed agreement with our firm. Any information shared between you and our firm before an attorney-client relationship is established is not confidential, privileged, or protected from disclosure. If you require immediate legal assistance, please contact our office directly.
Responsibility for Content
This advertisement is sponsored by Herman Law Firm.
Data Collection & Tracking
This advertisement may use tracking technology and allow third parties, including Meta, to collect data from user interactions for advertising and analytics purposes. These third parties may use cookies, web beacons, and similar technologies for targeted advertising. To learn more about data collection practices and opt-out options, visit: https://optout.aboutads.info/?c=2&lang=EN.
Call us: 1 866 850 3766 
call us: 1 866 850 3766 
Message Us 
Call Us