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Filing a Child Sexual Abuse Lawsuit in New York

Under CPLR 214-g, New York survivors of childhood sexual abuse can file civil claims until age 55, holding institutions accountable for failing to protect them.

Laurence P. Banville Reviewed by Laurence P. Banville, Esq. Last updated June 2026
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Laurence P. Banville, New York personal injury attorney
Laurence P. Banville Managing Partner · NY & D.C. Bars

Frequently asked questions

Can I still file a lawsuit if the abuse happened years ago?

Yes. Under CPLR 214-g (the Child Victims Act), survivors can file civil claims until their 55th birthday, or within 2.5 years of discovering that the abuse caused psychological or physical injury — whichever is later.

What is the difference between a criminal report and a civil lawsuit?

A criminal case is brought by the state to punish the abuser; a civil lawsuit is brought by the survivor to seek accountability and compensation from the abuser or the institution that failed to protect them. You can pursue a civil claim regardless of whether a criminal case was ever filed.

What if the school, church, or other institution denies the abuse occurred?

Institutional denial is common, but civil liability does not require a criminal conviction. Banville Law pursues negligent hiring, supervision, and retention claims against institutions — the focus is on what they knew or should have known and failed to act on.

Is my conversation with Banville Law confidential?

Absolutely. Attorney-client privilege protects every communication from your very first contact. You can share your story at your own pace, with no obligation to proceed. If you need immediate support, RAINN's free, confidential hotline is available 24/7 at 800-656-4673.

Related legal guides

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Childhood Sexual Abuse Lawsuits
Laurence P. Banville

Reviewed by Laurence P. Banville, Esq.

Managing Partner, Banville Law · New York & D.C. Bars

Laurence Banville is a New York personal injury attorney and the Managing Partner of Banville Law. Born in County Wexford, Ireland, he earned his law degree summa cum laude from University College Dublin and once defended insurance companies in product-liability litigation — experience he now uses for injured New Yorkers. He has been named to the Irish Legal 100 and the Irish Echo’s Top 40 Under 40, and is an AVVO Rated attorney.

NY Bar D.C. Bar Irish Legal 100 AVVO Rated AAJ Member

Read Laurence’s full bio →

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Laurence P. Banville, Esq., New York personal injury attorney
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