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1 800 686 9921Father Roger R. Leblanc was ordained in 1972 and subsequently assigned to St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Shirley, Massachusetts, within the Archdiocese of Boston, where he served from 1973 until his death on August 19, 1978. A claim alleging that he sexually abused a boy between approximately the ages of 11 and 12, during approximately 1972 to 1973, was settled in June 2023 in the high five figures. According to the allegation, the abuse occurred at the boy’s home rather than on church property. Father Leblanc died on August 19, 1978.
The 2023 settlement demonstrates that allegations can surface and be addressed many decades after the events are said to have occurred. Survivors who had contact with Father Leblanc during his assignment at St. Anthony of Padua Parish between 1973 and 1978 may have legal rights under Massachusetts law.
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 alleged sexual abuse takes place in a private residence rather than a church facility, survivors may question how institutional responsibility is evaluated. In civil proceedings, courts may examine whether an alleged perpetrator’s institutional role, authority, or pastoral relationship is relevant to claims against the institution.
A negotiated settlement represents an agreement between parties and often resolves claims without a trial. It does not require a public finding of liability, but it reflects that a dispute was formally asserted and resolved through the legal system.
Even when a priest died decades earlier, civil claims may be able to proceed against the archdiocese or other responsible entities. Courts may review assignment records, supervision practices, and the nature of the relationship between the priest and the family involved.
Massachusetts law recognizes that survivors frequently delay disclosure, particularly when abuse occurred in childhood and involved a trusted religious figure. The passage of time does not necessarily prevent legal review, depending on the applicable statutes.
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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