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1 800 686 9921Father Thomas Kocik, ordained in 1997, served as a priest within the Diocese of Fall River and held assignments at several parishes and Catholic institutions across southeastern Massachusetts, including Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Seekonk, St. Francis Xavier in Hyannis, St. Anne’s Hospital in Fall River, St. Anne Parish in Fall River, St. Joseph Parish in Taunton, Morton Hospital in Taunton, Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River, St. Michael Parish in Fall River, Santo Christo Parish in Fall River, and Cape Cod Hospital.
In October 2024, the Diocese publicly added his name to its list of credibly accused clergy following a review of older files that revealed allegations of child sexual abuse dating back to the 1990s. Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha placed Father Kocik on administrative leave and restricted him from public ministry, including celebrating Mass, performing sacraments, providing spiritual direction, or presenting himself as a priest in good standing. The Diocese has clarified that a determination of credibility reflects that an allegation is believable, and does not constitute a finding of guilt in a court of law. Father Kocik has denied culpability in the incident.
The Diocese of Fall River maintains a public list of clergy accused of sexual abuse and offers victim assistance resources for those affected and their families.
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.
If you or someone you love experienced sexual abuse by Father Thomas Kocik, you are not alone — and it may not be too late to take action.
Survivors of clergy abuse may continue to experience lasting emotional, psychological, and relational harm long after the abuse occurred. When criminal prosecution is unavailable or limited, civil courts may offer an important avenue for survivors to pursue accountability, recognition, and redress.
Civil litigation allows individuals to come forward on their own terms and seek acknowledgment of the profound harm the abuse caused. Through civil claims, survivors may be able to examine not only the conduct of the accused priest, but also the actions and decisions of the Diocese of Fall River — including whether church leadership knew or should have known about risks, failed to supervise clergy appropriately, or delayed protective action that could have prevented harm. Civil courts may hold institutions financially and publicly accountable for negligent supervision or failure to safeguard minors.
Massachusetts law may provide legal avenues for survivors, including provisions related to delayed discovery that could affect when a claim’s timeline begins. Because the application of these laws varies based on individual circumstances, speaking with an attorney is the most reliable way to understand whether a legal path may be available to you. Herman Law can evaluate your situation in a free, confidential consultation.
If you were abused by Father Thomas Kocik — or by any priest or staff member within the Diocese of Fall River — you deserve the opportunity to be heard and to explore your legal options.
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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