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If you or a loved one has suffered from sexual abuse, we may help connect you with an experienced New York attorney who will listen, guide you through the legal process, and help you pursue justice. To receive a free case review, fill out our confidential, brief form.
If you’ve endured something traumatic and life-altering, just thinking about taking legal action can feel overwhelming. But here’s what we want you to know: you are not alone.
With the right legal support, you can begin reclaiming your voice, your safety, and your sense of control. At Survivors Rights, our goal is to connect survivors with experienced sexual abuse attorneys in New York who handle these cases with compassion and skill.
Not every attorney is equipped to take on cases involving deep emotional trauma and legal complexity. You wouldn’t hire a tax lawyer for a medical malpractice case. Similarly, you shouldn’t hire a general practice attorney for something as sensitive as sexual abuse. A dedicated sexual abuse attorney is trained in the nuances of trauma, institutional liability, and the evolving landscape of New York law, including lookbook windows that expand the Statute of Limitations.
When it comes to justice for survivors, It’s not just about financial compensation (although it matters greatly). It’s also about accountability, closure, and support. It’s about surrounding yourself with professionals who make you feel heard, safe, and respected. And if you’re ready to take that first step, we may be able to help with the crucial first step: getting a free case review.
Far too many people miss their chance to pursue justice because they think it’s too late or their story “doesn’t count,” or that an attorney costs too much. But a few seconds is all it takes to learn if you may qualify.
Your information will be kept private and shared only with attorneys who may be able to help. There are no upfront attorney fees. The New York sexual abuse and assault attorneys we work with typically work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you receive compensation. Any legal fees or case-related expenses will be clearly explained by the law firm before representation begins.
Pursuing justice after sexual abuse involves more than filing paperwork. It requires understanding, advocacy, and legal expertise. Here are just a few ways a New York sexual abuse attorney can support your healing and your case:
Legal care is just one part. A good attorney can refer you to therapists, support groups, and more.
Finding a Sexual Abuse Attorney Near You in New York Whether you live in NYC, Buffalo, Albany, Rochester, or in a rural county, our network includes attorneys throughout New York State. These attorneys understand regional court procedures and the specific state laws that may apply to your case. Local knowledge can make a significant difference in outcomes.
We may connect survivors with New York attorneys experienced in the following types of cases:
From Buffalo to NYC, SurvivorsRights.com may help connect you with an experienced, local attorney who specializes in these types of cases.
If you’re ready to speak to someone who will listen and guide you with care, we can connect you to an experienced, local attorney. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward justice.
New York has made significant legal changes in recent years to support survivors:
New York has been the center of several high-profile sexual abuse lawsuits and settlements that have shaped survivor rights:
These lawsuits reflect the accountability survivors are demanding—and receiving—in New York State.
As mentioned above, New York, similar to several other states, has expanded the statute of limitations for sexual abuse and assault cases, enabline survivors to courageously come forward years, or even decades, after the event occurred. Moreover, tolling provisions can extend the deadlines to file a claim. For example:
If you were sexually abused by an employee of a government-run institution — such as a public school, juvenile facility, or city-run hospital — you may need to file a Notice of Claim before pursuing a lawsuit.
In most cases, a Notice of Claim must be filed within 90 days of the incident. However, in child sexual abuse cases, New York law allows for exceptions and extensions. Missing this filing window can result in your case being dismissed, so acting quickly is essential.
A qualified New York sexual abuse attorney can help ensure your Notice of Claim is filed correctly and on time, preserving your right to seek justice.
If you’ve been sexually abused in New York, navigating statutes of limitations, mandatory reporting rules, and complex civil procedures can be overwhelming. Consulting with an experienced New York sexual abuse attorney can bring clarity and support tailored to your situation. Every survivor’s journey is unique. An attorney can help determine the applicable statutes—such as the Child Victims Act, Adult Survivors Act, or rules around public entity liability—and assist in pursuing the justice you deserve.
If you have questions about your rights or need assistance connecting with a qualified New York attorney, our intake team may be able to help connect you.
The attorneys we connect you with take a trauma-informed, survivor-first approach—essential when handling such sensitive matters. Here’s why choosing our New York sexual abuse attorneys matters:
Reaching out for legal help takes courage. If you’re ready to take the next step, our compassionate intake team is standing by to connect you with legal support tailored to your needs.
Under the Child Victims Act, survivors have until age 55 to file civil claims, or one year from the law’s look-back window (which ended August 2021). Under the Adult Survivors Act, adult survivors had a one-year opportunity (ending November 24, 2023) to bring forward previously time-barred claims. First-degree rape now has no criminal statute of limitations, and civil claims may vary—consult an attorney for clarity on your case.
Yes—New York’s CVA and ASA were designed to allow survivors to bring claims long after the abuse occurred. However, these windows have now closed, so you should consult an attorney right away to determine if you qualify under existing law.
You can still pursue civil action. Criminal conviction is not required for filing a lawsuit in New York; your evidence and testimony still matter.
Many survivors request anonymity, and the court has discretion to grant it. Your attorney will help you request this to safeguard your privacy.
Yes. In New York, you can bring negligence or liability claims against institutions—such as schools, churches, clubs, or government bodies—that failed to protect you.
Yes. New York law allows suits against state-run facilities, including foster care and youth institutions. Public-entity notice requirements may apply, so legal guidance is advised.
Each case varies depending on complexity, the institution involved, and whether discovery or trial is required. Your attorney can provide a timeline based on your specific circumstances.
Attorneys experienced in sexual abuse cases work with trauma-informed professionals and often use private settlements so survivors don’t have to relive their trauma in open court.
Survivors may be awarded damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, medical and psychological care, loss of enjoyment of life, and sometimes punitive damages, depending on the case.
Look for a New York-licensed, trauma-informed attorney with experience in sexual abuse litigation, especially under the CVA and ASA. Our intake team can help connect you with qualified attorneys near you. Fill out the confidential brief form for a free case review.
If you’d like help navigating your legal options or connecting with a New York sexual abuse attorney, our team is here to support you confidentially and compassionately.