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Father Phillip J. Higgins served at parishes across two dioceses. In Massachusetts, he was assigned to St. George in Westport, St. Peter in Provincetown, and St. Lawrence in New Bedford, under the Diocese of Fall River. He also served at Our Lady of Lourdes in Richmond and Saint Victoria in Hurt, Virginia, under the Diocese of Richmond. In the 1980s, he was also in residence at St. Thomas the Apostle in Washington, D.C.
Higgins’ name first appeared publicly in September 2002, when Bristol County District Attorney Paul Walsh released a list of sexual abuse accused clergy. Higgins was named with one alleged victim; the claims were noted as falling beyond the statute of limitations at that time. In February 2019, the Diocese of Richmond included him on its list of clergy with credible and substantiated allegations of sexual abuse of a minor. The Diocese of Fall River subsequently included him on its list of credibly accused clergy in January 2021. His faculties had been removed prior to his death in February 2007.
The public identification of Father Higgins on both diocesan and prosecutorial lists reflects the seriousness with which these allegations have been treated. Survivors of clergy abuse often carry lasting psychological harm, and the process of public accountability — however delayed — can be a meaningful step toward recognition.
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.
Civil litigation may provide a pathway for survivors of sexual abuse by Father Higgins to seek accountability and acknowledgment, even after his death. Massachusetts law may allow civil claims against institutions that failed to prevent or adequately respond to allegations of abuse. Survivors are encouraged to consult with an attorney to understand their potential legal options based on their individual circumstances.
Legal action may offer financial compensation for emotional and psychological harm and may help ensure that the public record reflects both the alleged misconduct and any potential institutional failures. While Father Higgins is deceased, civil remedies directed at the institutions that supervised him may offer meaningful recognition and validation for survivors.
By coming forward, survivors may also contribute to broader institutional reform — encouraging dioceses to strengthen oversight, take allegations seriously, and prioritize the protection of vulnerable individuals. The legal process can empower survivors to have their experiences formally acknowledged and addressed. Herman Law is committed to supporting survivors throughout this 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.
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