New York has made groundbreaking changes to its statute of limitations laws, opening a critical window for survivors of sexual abuse to seek justice—even for abuse that occurred decades ago.
Time-Sensitive Opportunity
The Adult Survivors Act created a one-year lookback window that allows survivors to file civil lawsuits regardless of when the abuse occurred. This window is time-limited, so it's important to understand your rights now.
Understanding the Adult Survivors Act
The Adult Survivors Act (ASA) is a landmark piece of legislation that temporarily suspends the statute of limitations for sexual abuse claims. Previously, many survivors were barred from seeking justice because too much time had passed since the abuse occurred.
This law recognizes a crucial truth: survivors often need years or even decades to come forward due to trauma, shame, fear of retaliation, or not understanding that what happened to them was abuse. The ASA provides a path to accountability and healing that was previously unavailable.
Who Qualifies Under the Adult Survivors Act?
You may be eligible to file a claim if:
- You were 18 years or older when the sexual abuse occurred
- The abuse took place in New York State or was committed by a New York resident
- The abuse would have been considered a crime under New York law
- Your previous statute of limitations had already expired
This includes cases involving workplace sexual harassment, assault, abuse by medical professionals, clergy abuse, institutional abuse, and many other situations where power was abused.
What You Can Sue For:
Under the Adult Survivors Act, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- • Medical and therapy expenses (past and future)
- • Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- • Pain and suffering
- • Emotional distress and trauma
- • Punitive damages against perpetrators and negligent institutions
The Lookback Window Timeline
The Adult Survivors Act opened a one-year window beginning on November 24, 2022. During this time, survivors who were previously time-barred could file civil lawsuits. It's crucial to understand these deadlines and act within the available timeframe.
Even if the lookback window has closed, New York has also made permanent changes to its statute of limitations for future cases, extending the time survivors have to file claims. Our legal team can help you understand whether your case still qualifies.
Why These Changes Matter
Research shows that it takes survivors an average of 21 years to disclose sexual abuse. The reasons are complex and deeply personal:
- Trauma Response: Survivors often dissociate or suppress traumatic memories as a coping mechanism
- Fear and Shame: Perpetrators often manipulate victims into silence through threats, gaslighting, or exploiting power dynamics
- Lack of Understanding: Many survivors, especially those abused as young adults, didn't recognize the abuse for what it was at the time
- Cultural Barriers: Stigma, victim-blaming, and lack of support systems can prevent disclosure
The Adult Survivors Act acknowledges these realities and provides a path to justice that respects the complex nature of trauma and recovery.
Taking the Next Step
If you believe you may qualify under the Adult Survivors Act or other statute of limitations extensions, we encourage you to reach out for a free, confidential consultation. Our trauma-trained attorneys can:
- Evaluate whether your case qualifies under current New York law
- Explain your legal options and the litigation process
- Connect you with support resources and trauma-informed therapists
- Handle your case on a contingency fee basis (no fees unless we win)
You Are Not Alone:
Thousands of survivors have come forward under the Adult Survivors Act, holding perpetrators and institutions accountable. Your voice matters, and you deserve to be heard.
Whether you're ready to file a claim or just want to understand your options, we're here to support you every step of the way.
Conclusion
New York's expansion of the statute of limitations represents a monumental shift in how the legal system recognizes and responds to sexual abuse. These changes acknowledge that healing and justice cannot be confined to arbitrary timeframes.
If you're a survivor, know that it's never too late to seek justice. Whether your abuse happened recently or decades ago, you have rights, and you deserve support. Contact our team for a confidential consultation to learn more about your options.