Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Revives Harvard Morgue Lawsuit

Keches Law Group Leads Effort to Hold University Accountable

MILTON, Mass., Oct. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Keches Law Group, P.C., lead counsel representing families affected by the Harvard Medical School morgue scandal, announced today that the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court has reinstated key claims against Harvard University and its Anatomical Gift Program director, clearing the way for the case to proceed in Superior Court.

The opinion, SJC-13688, found that plaintiffs' factual allegations warrant an inference that "Harvard's extraordinary failure to adequately supervise the morgue's operations and properly protect the donated remains in its care exemplifies the kind of 'peculiarly pervasive noncompliance'  we have said can demonstrate a lack of good faith."

"This is a major victory for the families who trusted Harvard with their loved ones' final wishes," said Attorney Sean Flaherty, Managing Partner of Keches Law Group. "The Supreme Judicial Court recognized that Harvard can't hide behind immunity when its failure to supervise created the conditions for this appalling abuse."

The ruling sends the case back to the Superior Court for discovery and trial proceedings, where Keches Law Group will continue pursuing justice for donor families whose loved ones were betrayed by what the firm describes as "a systemic failure of responsibility and respect."

"This is about accountability and dignity," said Attorney Jeffrey Catalano, one of the firm's lead litigators on the case. "These families gave the ultimate gift, the donation of their loved ones' bodies for science and education, and Harvard's negligence turned that trust into tragedy. We will not stop until the full truth is revealed."

Keches Law Group represents over 700 donor family members and is continuing to investigate additional potential claims.

About Keches Law Group

Founded in 1986, Keches Law Group, P.C. is one of the largest and most respected personal injury law firms in New England. The firm has recovered over $3 billion for injured clients and their families to-date. Keches Law Group represents clients in matters involving workplace injuries, medical malpractice, social security disability, class actions, and other complex litigation. The firm is also deeply committed to community service, supporting local organizations, scholarships, and charitable initiatives across the region through their non-profit, Keches Cares. For more information, visit the Keches Law website or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

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SOURCE Keches Law Group