Reviewed by Laurence P. Banville, Esq.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 to hold the camp or its parent organization accountable for failing to protect you. You can pursue one, both, or neither — the choice is entirely yours.
Can I still file a civil claim if the abuse happened years ago?
Possibly, yes. Under New York's Child Victims Act, survivors of childhood sexual abuse may file civil claims until age 55 under CPLR §208(b). A separate provision, CPLR §214-g, briefly allowed survivors of any age to revive previously time-barred claims, but that window closed on August 14, 2021. If your claim hadn't already expired before 2019, or you filed during that window, you're likely still protected under the age-55 rule today. An attorney can assess where you stand on the timelin
What if the camp denies the abuse ever happened?
Institutional denial is common. A civil lawsuit is built on evidence — records, witness accounts, prior complaints — not just the camp's version of events. Camps and their management companies can be held liable under theories of negligent hiring, negligent supervision, and negligent retention.
Is my conversation with Banville Law confidential?
Yes. Attorney-client privilege protects every conversation from the moment you reach out. Nothing you share can be disclosed without your consent, and speaking with an attorney carries no obligation to proceed.