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1 800 686 9921
Free CASE REVIEWS
1 800 686 9921
Were you sexually abused by Richard Lavigne, a defrocked priest of the Springfield Diocese? Many survivors have carried silence for decades, unsure where to turn. Coming forward takes courage, and civil claims may help hold institutions accountable for the harm they enabled. Survivors deserve to be heard and to heal on their own terms.
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.
Richard Lavigne served in the Springfield Diocese for more than twenty-five years, working in parishes and with youth in his communities. He was arrested and charged with child sexual abuse in 1991 after several survivors came forward. The following year, he was convicted of sexually abusing two boys and sentenced to ten years of probation. In 1993, eleven more survivors reported abuse, and in 1994, the diocese settled seventeen claims for $1.4 million.
Over time, more survivors spoke out. By 2004, additional settlements were reached, and public records identified at least forty-eight individuals who had come forward with claims of abuse. Investigators later estimated that more than 250 children may have been harmed. The Vatican ultimately removed Lavigne from the priesthood in the early 2000s following sustained pressure from survivors and their supporters.
Authorities also named Lavigne as the prime suspect in the 1972 killing of 13-year-old altar boy Danny Croteau. In recorded police interviews conducted in the weeks before his death, he made statements that the Hampden District Attorney said implicated him in the killing. Lavigne died from COVID-19 only hours before authorities were prepared to arrest him.
The Springfield Diocese has paid millions in settlements and listed Lavigne among clergy found to be credibly accused of sexual abuse. In 2023, diocesan officials announced new credible findings against him, reflecting an ongoing effort to confront the harm caused and acknowledge survivors’ courage in coming forward.
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.
Client Reviews
Herman law saved my life. Plain and simple. I am forever grateful for my family at Herman law. They brought me and my family justice and then delivered accountability to a corrupt and broken system. They uncovered the agencies cover up and then confronted my perpetrator, holding him accountable. I am forever grateful and can now live a life enveloped in healing and hope. Thank you Herman law family. Love you guys!!
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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