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1 800 686 9921
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1 800 686 9921
Father William J. Duffy was a Jesuit priest ordained in 1931 who served in a range of ministries, including teaching roles and as a U.S. Army chaplain during World War II. Although he died in 1998 at the age of 96, allegations of sexual abuse — with reported incidents dating to 1957–1958 — were later brought forward and investigated by the Jesuit order.
Father Duffy’s name was included on a list of accused priests published in January 2011 by a Boston attorney who had obtained settlements or arbitration awards in connection with claims against the priests named, including allegations against Father Duffy in connection with the New England Society of Jesus. He was subsequently listed by the Jesuits USA Northeast Province in 2019 as having a credible allegation of abuse of a minor following the order’s investigation. These public disclosures reflect allegations that came to light years after his death and the Jesuit order’s efforts to identify members with credible accusations of sexual misconduct.
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.
Survivors of sexual abuse by Father William J. Duffy may have grounds to pursue civil claims in connection with his ministry and the institutions responsible for his supervision. The Jesuits USA Northeast Province has publicly listed him as credibly accused following its investigation, and a 2011 list of priests whose cases resulted in settlements or arbitration awards included his name in connection with the New England Society of Jesus.
The involvement of the Jesuit order in Father Duffy’s assignments raises questions about the oversight responsibilities of that institution during the period in which the alleged abuse occurred. Civil litigation may provide an avenue to seek internal records, personnel files, and communications that could shed light on what was known about his conduct and how any allegations were handled.
In Massachusetts, institutions may owe a duty of care to minors in their programs and parishes. Alleged failures to fulfill that duty — including disregarding complaints or failing to act on concerns about a cleric’s conduct — may form the basis for civil claims, potentially allowing survivors to seek accountability and compensation.
By coming forward, survivors may contribute to greater transparency within religious institutions and support efforts to prevent future abuse.
Through civil claims, survivors may be able to seek compensation for emotional distress, psychological trauma, medical costs, lost opportunities, and other harms they have suffered.
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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