How long do I have to file a claim?
The recently passed New York Adult Survivor Act allows adult survivors of sexual abuse who were over the age of 18 at the time of the abuse to file a claim, regardless of when the abuse occurred, during a one-year lookback window from November 2022 to November 2023.
Importance of the Act
This is important legislation as most adult-related sexual abuse claims have a 3-year statute of limitations in New York. This means that if a file wasn’t claimed within 3 years of the abuse, there was no opportunity to seek justice. The Adult Survivor Act provides a one-year lookback window for adult survivors to file a claim regardless of when the abuse occurred.
Compensation for Survivors
By creating a one-year lookback window, the Adult Survivor Act gives survivors an opportunity to file a claim against their abuser, and receive compensation for the impact that sexual abuse has had on their lives. Sexual abuse effects can be significant, long-term, and far-reaching, including:
- Loss of career opportunities
- Emotional distress
- Difficulty with other intimate relationships
- Depression and anxiety
Along with monetary compensation, a successful sexual abuse case could pay for ongoing support for a survivor’s mental health, which could lead to improved quality of life socially, economically, and emotionally.
The emotional impact of sexual abuse
Sexual abuse violates a person physically and emotionally and in aspects of our lives that many people prefer to keep private.
Sexual abuse counseling can play an important part in healing and recovery from the experience of abuse. It can be difficult for some survivors to begin counseling or therapy but there are many reputable organizations that can assist with the process.
Coping with coming forward
While the emotional impact of coming forward can be difficult, it also provides a way to gain closure and hold sexual abusers responsible for their actions. Fortunately, there is a wide range of support resources available, regardless of being involved in a lawsuit.
- The National Sexual Assault Hotline, operated by RAINN, provides crisis support by phone;
- The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides support for those abused within a domestic relationship;
- Love is Respect provides help for those dealing with sexual abuse or who fear they may be in an abusive relationship; and
- Safe Helpline provides anonymous, 24/7 help for members of the military who have experienced sexual abuse.
In addition, ongoing care from a therapist can be an important part of healing. Group therapy, one-on-one sessions, and/or prescription medications are all options a survivor can consider to assist in their recovery.
Filing a lawsuit
If you have experienced sexual violence, an important first step to consider is contacting an experienced lawyer who can explain what legal options you have. Our attorneys are ready to listen and provide you with a free, 100% confidential consultation.