Shepard O'Donnell

10/19/2026

While asbestos use has declined in recent years, asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma remain a serious public health concern. In fact, asbestos litigation is one of the longest-running mass torts in American history.

According to the American Cancer Society, about 3,000 new cases of malignant mesothelioma are reported in the United States each year.

Read our blog to learn more about the disease in today’s society and the options available to victims and their families.
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10/16/2026

When considering hiring an attorney to represent your interests in a Massachusetts mesothelioma case, it’s important to weigh the differences between a national and a local firm. Read our blog to learn more about why local experience matters and why bigger isn’t always better. https://buff.ly/3DJIgSZ

10/14/2026

Keeping our children safe is everyone's responsibility. But for a “mandated reporter,” it’s part of their job.

A mandated reporter is a person who, because of their profession or role, is legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities. In Massachusetts, mandated reporters include certain educators, healthcare professionals, social workers, law enforcement personnel, and others who work with or have responsibility for children.

https://buff.ly/Ki6RHUW

House Bill 4539 would significantly expand access to the civil justice system for survivors of childhood s*xual abuse.

10/12/2026

Today, we honor Indigenous Peoples’ Day and celebrate the rich history, communities, and culture that have shaped our nation.

10/09/2026

For survivors of childhood s*xual abuse, justice should not come with an expiration date.

Shepard O’Donnell Managing Partner Erika O’Donnell attended the Abuse Virtual Press Conference, joining survivors, advocates, lawmakers, and others calling for the elimination of Massachusetts’ civil statute of limitations for childhood s*xual abuse claims.

Survivors often need years, even decades, to process their trauma and find the strength to come forward. Yet current laws can prevent them from seeking justice simply because too much time has passed. We applaud Enough Abuse and the advocates, survivors, and legislators working tirelessly to advance this critical reform. Learn more about the proposed reforms and MassINC poll results: https://buff.ly/ikMfkdF

Survivors of child s*xual abuse deserve access to justice with no time limits. It's time to eliminate the civil Statute of Limitations on Child Sexual Abuse in Massachusetts, as well as the cap on damages for charitable institutions.

10/09/2026

Last week, the Massachusetts Attorney General’s office revealed evidence that more than 270 Catholic clerics abused nearly 1,000 children across Fall River, Springfield, and Worcester.

The report highlights the legal limits survivors face. Under current MA legislation, civil claims can be submitted 35 years past age 18, an arbitrary timeline that leaves many without recourse.

WBUR 90.9 FM highlights the work underway to change these laws so everyone can pursue justice.

Massachusetts lawmakers are weighing changes to the statute of limitations for civil child s*xual abuse claims. The Catholic church, which has seen its influence on Beacon Hill shrivel, has lobbied against similar proposals. But there is another influential opponent: the insurance industry.

10/08/2026

Today is National Day of Action to , a movement organized by Women's March that brings together advocacy groups, survivors, and communities across the nation to bring attention to s*xual violence in our homes, neighborhoods, universities, institutions, and government.

Real change starts with institutional accountability and continuous support for survivors. Today and every day, we remain dedicated to fighting for justice, holding institutions accountable, and protecting survivors' rights.

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10/07/2026

Abuse by an authority figure in a school setting rarely starts overnight. It often begins much sooner.

Grooming is a deliberate pattern of behavior used to gain a student's trust, create emotional dependence, and blur professional boundaries. Recognizing these red flags can help protect students and identify past abuse.

Learn more about identifying warning signs of school s*x abuse in our downloadable guide: https://buff.ly/pqJcVYU

10/06/2026

Until July 2026, there was a troubling gap in Massachusetts law that left some minors under 18 vulnerable to s*xual exploitation by those who should be trusted adults. That gap has now been closed.

The new law recognizes an important reality: when an adult holds a position of authority or trust over a young person, consent cannot be separated from that power imbalance. It explicitly states that a person under 18 cannot legally consent to s*xual conduct with someone in a position of authority, and specifically identifies authority figures such as teachers, coaches, police officers, social workers, and other mandated reporters.

This is an important step in protecting minors against abuse crimes. Read more in our latest blog.

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10/02/2026

Injuries from defective products can occur anywhere: at home, at work, on the road, or while receiving medical care.

If you or a loved one has been injured by these or other defective products, you may have a claim:

- Defective medical devices and implants
- Prescription drugs
- Hazardous and toxic substances
- Motor vehicles and vehicle components
- Industrial machinery and workplace equipment
- Household and consumer products
- Children's products and toys
- Appliances and electronics
- Tools and power equipment
- Safety equipment

Product liability claims are complex. You shouldn’t need to navigate this process alone. Learn more about our liability practice and contact us today. https://buff.ly/HhNwI5R

Product liability cases can be complex. Understanding what happened requires a careful and detailed investigation into the exact product that caused the injury and the circumstances surrounding the…