Gerard T. Donnelly

Gerard T. Donnelly is a seasoned attorney and co-founder of Hassett | Donnelly, specializing in civil litigation, municipal liability, and complex defense strategies. With extensive experience across various practice areas, Gerard represents insurers, third-party administrators (TPAs), businesses, and individuals in high-exposure matters, providing innovative and effective legal solutions.

Gerard earned his Juris Doctor from Western New England College School of Law and holds a Bachelor of Arts from Worcester State College. His legal career is complemented by his prior experience in the insurance industry as an adjuster and investigator, which has equipped him with a unique perspective on risk assessment and claims resolution.

Gerard’s practice encompasses a wide range of legal areas, including class actions, construction litigation, intellectual property disputes, employment litigation, product liability, and workers’ compensation.

He is particularly recognized for his expertise in defending public entities such as towns, cities, schools, and police departments against negligence claims, civil rights disputes, and employment litigation. His work often involves navigating the complexities of c. 258 actions, Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) cases, and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) matters.

Over the course of his career, Gerard has achieved a remarkable record of defense verdicts, dismissals, and favorable summary judgment motions in both state and federal courts. He is well-versed in legal principles surrounding public employer defense, including discretionary functions, public duty rules, and statutory immunities. Additionally, he has defended non-profit, charitable, and religious organizations in high-profile cases, often resolving matters efficiently to minimize costs and prolong litigation.

Gerard’s comprehensive knowledge and strategic approach have also made him a trusted advocate for local and national businesses in asbestos and class-action litigation. His commitment to excellence and ability to address evolving legal challenges have solidified his reputation as a leading litigator in Massachusetts and beyond.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Hassett & Donnelly, P.C.
• Member, Massachusetts Bar Association
• Member, Worcester County Bar Association
• Member, Federal Bar Association
• Member, Claims and Litigation Management Alliance (CLM)
• Member, Defense Research Institute (DRI)
• Member, Massachusetts Defense Lawyers Association (MassDLA)
• Member, Risk and Insurance Management Society, Inc. (RIMS)

Licensed State

• Massachusetts

Education

• Western New England College School of Law
  Juris Doctor (J.D.)
• Worcester State College
  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Awards & Badges