Juvenile Detention Abuse Lawsuit in New York

Under CPLR 214-g, survivors of sexual abuse in juvenile detention facilities can pursue civil claims against the institutions that failed to protect them — regardless of whether criminal charges were ever filed.

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 if the abuse in juvenile detention happened years ago?

Yes. New York's Child Victims Act (CPLR 214-g) allows survivors of childhood sexual abuse to file civil claims until age 55 — or within 2.5 years of discovering a connection between the abuse and a psychological or physical injury. You may still have time to act.

Can a juvenile detention facility be held liable even if staff were never criminally charged?

Absolutely. Civil liability is entirely independent of criminal prosecution. Banville Law pursues claims based on the facility's own failures — negligent hiring, negligent supervision, and negligent retention of abusive staff — not on a criminal conviction.

Is my conversation with Banville Law confidential?

Yes. Attorney-client privilege protects every communication from the moment you reach out. Nothing you share is disclosed without your consent. If you need immediate support, RAINN's National Sexual Assault Hotline is free and confidential at 800-656-4673, available 24/7.

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

That is completely understandable — coming forward takes real courage, and there is no obligation to share more than you are comfortable with at any stage. You decide next steps, at your own pace.

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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

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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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