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Father Raymond W. McCarthy was ordained in 1945 and served in the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts. In September 2002, his name appeared on a publicly released list of priests accused of sexual abuse, issued by the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office. That list identified four alleged victims associated with Father McCarthy.
In 1972, he relocated to the St. Louis area, where he continued to participate in parish ministry. He died on November 7, 2005. In January 2021, the Diocese of Fall River included his name on its list of clergy credibly accused of sexual abuse. The diocesan listing noted that his priestly faculties had been removed.
These public disclosures reflect allegations spanning decades and involving multiple reported victims. Survivors connected to Father McCarthy’s ministry across any of his assignments in the Diocese of Fall River may have legal rights under Massachusetts law, regardless of subsequent relocations or internal church action.
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.
When a priest’s name appears on a list released by a prosecutor and later on a diocesan list of credibly accused clergy, survivors may experience both validation and renewed distress. Public acknowledgment can confirm that allegations were taken seriously, yet it may also reopen painful memories.
Civil court provides an opportunity for justice separate from criminal investigations and internal church determinations. In Massachusetts, survivors of childhood sexual abuse may pursue civil claims that address both the alleged conduct of the individual and the actions of the institution responsible for supervision and placement.
Courts may examine whether complaints were handled appropriately, whether a priest’s movements were accompanied by adequate disclosure to receiving institutions, and whether safeguards were in place to protect children. Even when a priest has died, civil claims may proceed against the diocese or other responsible entities if legal grounds exist.
Massachusetts law recognizes that delayed disclosure is common in cases involving abuse during childhood. Survivors may come forward years or decades after the alleged events, particularly when public lists or prosecutorial reports bring additional information to light.
For many survivors, civil litigation provides more than financial compensation. It creates a formal public record and offers acknowledgment of harm. The civil justice system provides a structured path toward accountability and transparency under state law.
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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