Massachusetts Diocese Settlement involved Arbitration where Church Waived Certain Defenses

The Diocese of Springfield Massachusetts has reached agreements with 59 men and women who came forward to speak of their past abuse by clergy and religious. Each had been invited to participate in a voluntary arbitration process. The claims of abuse date back to 1948. In addition to these financial settlements, all victims remain eligible to receive continuing counseling and assistance programs through the diocese.  The Diocese had waived the statute of limitations and charitable immunity defenses which would have barred certain claims.