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How to Report Clergy Sexual Abuse in New York

Reporting clergy sexual abuse is a deeply personal decision — you can report to authorities, file a civil lawsuit, or both, and you decide what steps feel right for you.

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

What is the difference between reporting to police and filing a civil lawsuit?

A criminal report asks the government to prosecute the abuser; a civil lawsuit is a separate legal action you bring against the abuser and the institution that failed to protect you. You may pursue one, both, or neither — the choice is yours, at your own pace.

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

Under New York's Child Victims Act (CPLR 214-g), survivors of childhood clergy abuse may file civil claims until age 55, or within 2.5 years of discovering the abuse caused psychological or physical injury — so many survivors still have time even if the abuse occurred decades ago.

What if the diocese or institution denies the abuse ever happened?

Institutions frequently deny wrongdoing, but civil liability is independent of any criminal prosecution or institutional admission. An attorney can investigate records, personnel files, and prior complaints to build a case focused on the institution's failure to protect you.

Is my conversation with Banville Law confidential?

Yes — attorney-client privilege protects every conversation. Nothing you share with Banville Law can be disclosed without your consent, and reaching out carries no obligation to proceed.

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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
Laurence P. Banville, Esq. Managing Partner — he personally reviews every case review request.
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