As of August 15, 2019, the New York Child Victims Act (NYCVA) permits all New York residents who have unfortunately experienced past acts of childhood sexual abuse a statutory opportunity to file a civil lawsuit against their abusers and/or responsible entities regardless of whether or not the prior time limit for such claims had expired. This “look back window” provision allows victims of childhood sexual assault to file a claim for a period of one year. Additionally, the natural statute of limitations for filing a claim of childhood sexual abuse has been expanded to age 55.
The NYCVA states that a civil lawsuit may be filed against any party “whose intentional or negligent acts or omissions are alleged to have resulted in the commission” of sexual abuse against a minor. The individual, but are not limited to coaches, teachers, clergy members, family members, camp counselors, doctors—among a multitude of other capacities. Importantly, the NYCVA has also removed the requirement for a “notice of claim”, which was required under the prior law before a lawsuit could be commenced.
Under the NYCVA, victims of abusers may seek recovery for:
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Psychological trauma
- Loss of employment
- Loss of income
Slater Slater Schulman LLP is dedicated to the confidential representation of individuals who were abused as a child in New York. If you or someone you love has suffered this form of abuse and wishes to file a claim, please contact Slater Slater Schulman LLP for a free, confidential consultation by filling out the form on this page or by calling our office at (800) 251-6990.
