What You Need to Know About the New York Child Victims Act

As new allegations against the Catholic Church come to the public’s attention, new laws are being put into place to help people recover from their suffering. Laws such as the New York’s Child Victims Act, for example, are meant to make civil lawsuits easier for those struggling after childhood sexual abuse. 

So, what do you need to know about the New York Child Victims Act? Understanding the details of this act can help you and your family seek compensation, especially as your time limits become a concern. Make sure you speak to your attorney about the details of your claim and your options. 

Your Time Limits to Sue

Previously in New York, victims of child sexual abuse had strict limits placed on their claims. Before the new act, you might have only have until your twenty-third birthday to file a claim. If five years have passed since you turned eighteen, your claim could be dismissed. 

However, the Child Victims Act greatly expanded the time you have to sue. Now, you’ll have until you’re fifty-five years old to file a claim for your sexual abuse. That gives you and your family time to file a claim and seek out the compensation you may qualify for. 

Your time limits for criminal charges are also expanded. Now, you’ll have until you’re twenty-eight to file criminal charges. While your time is still limited, you’ll have more time to gather evidence and act on your case. 

The One-Year Limit

New York’s new act has also changed the options for minors who have come forward about the sexual abuse they’ve suffered. Previously, minors would have to wait until they were considered an adult with the legal power an adult has. Unfortunately, that barred people in the past from acting. 

However, New York law has changed to give them more opportunities. Now, victims of child sexual abuse of any age may have a one-year time limit. That means families who might not have been able to act before because of their age can now seek compensation. 

That gives more families a chance to act now for the help they need with such a serious case. Even if enough time has passed that your abuser has died, you’ll still have a chance to seek compensation from the institution they were involved with. 

Get Answers About the New York’s Child Victims Act

When you or your child has suffered sexual abuse, it’s important to act to understand your claim and legal options for recovery. Although laws have changed to your advantage, you might still be unsure what you need to know about the New York Child Victims Act. 

At Greenstein & Milbauer, LLP, we understand how tough it can be to understand the full effects of these new laws. Fortunately, that’s where your lawyer can help. If you’re not sure where to begin, reach out for help from your lawyer, starting with a free consultation. Simply call 1-800-VICTIM2 (842-8462) or fill out the online form below. 

The post What You Need to Know About the New York Child Victims Act appeared first on Greenstein & Milbauer.

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