Foster Care Abuse Lawsuit in New York

Under CPLR 214-g (Child Victims Act), survivors of foster care sexual abuse can file civil claims against the agencies and institutions that failed to protect them — often until age 55.

Last updated June 2026
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 foster care abuse lawsuit if the abuse happened years ago?

Yes. Under CPLR 214-g, New York's Child Victims Act extends the civil filing deadline for childhood sexual abuse survivors until age 55, regardless of when the abuse occurred. An attorney can review your specific timeline.

Can I sue the foster care agency, not just the individual abuser?

Yes — institutions like foster care agencies and supervising organizations can be held civilly liable for negligent hiring, supervision, or retention of individuals who committed abuse. Civil liability exists independently of any criminal case.

What if I am not ready to talk about details yet?

You don't have to share everything at once. Banville Law's referral attorneys can explain your legal options at your pace, with no obligation to proceed. Every conversation is protected by attorney-client privilege.

Where can I find crisis support while I consider my legal options?

The RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline (800-656-4673) is free, confidential, and available 24/7. You can seek emotional support independently of any legal decision — you decide next steps.

Related legal guides

Dig into the specifics

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 →

Free case review

Tell us what happened. We’ll tell you where you stand.

A free, no-pressure review with a New York attorney — in plain English. We’ll explain your options and the deadlines that matter.

  • Free & confidential — no obligation
  • A real answer about your NY claim, not a sales pitch
  • No fee unless we win your case

Prefer to talk now? (917) 551-6690

Laurence P. Banville, Esq., New York personal injury attorney
Laurence P. Banville, Esq. Managing Partner — he personally reviews every case review request.
Sex Abuse Form

This form takes about 2 minutes. You don't need to share any details about what happened — just enough for us to understand who may be legally responsible.

Call now Free case review