Free CASE REVIEWS
1 800 686 9921
Free CASE REVIEWS
1 800 686 9921
Father Philip D. Moriarty — whose name also appears spelled “Moriarity” across some source records — was included on the USA Northeast Province’s list of Jesuits with credible allegations of sexual abuse of a minor, published on January 15, 2019. The allegation describes abuse of a minor between 1963 and 1969, during a period when Father Moriarty was assigned to Xavier High School in Concord, Massachusetts. Father Moriarty died in 1974. Because the allegation was not reported until 2005 — more than three decades after his death — neither canonical nor criminal proceedings were available.
Father Moriarty’s inclusion on the Jesuits’ official list reflects the order’s finding, following investigation, that the allegation met the province’s stated threshold for credibility: a preponderance of evidence that the allegation is more likely true than not. The province’s list notes that many Jesuits named on it have not been found guilty of a crime or held liable in a civil proceeding. For survivors, the order’s formal acknowledgment of the allegation may represent a measure of institutional recognition — one that can inform decisions about whether to pursue civil accountability.
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 those who allege they were sexually abused during the 1960s, the path to seeking civil accountability has often involved significant obstacles, including the passage of time and the death of the accused individual. Civil litigation may nonetheless provide a forum through which survivors can raise questions about the institutional decisions that allegedly permitted abuse to occur. Survivors may contend that when a religious order assigns a priest to a school setting with regular access to minors, the order may bear responsibility for the safety of those in its care.
Massachusetts law may provide pathways for survivors of childhood sexual abuse to pursue civil claims even when significant time has passed since the alleged abuse. Whether those pathways are available depends on the specific facts and circumstances of each individual’s situation. Civil proceedings may also allow survivors to raise questions about the institution’s response to allegations, including whether leadership took adequate steps to protect minors and ensure proper oversight. Even when an accused priest has died, civil actions may offer survivors an opportunity to seek acknowledgment of what occurred and, for some, to contribute to a public record of both individual allegations and institutional decision-making.
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