Reviewed by Laurence P. Banville, Esq.Frequently asked questions
Can I still file a civil lawsuit if the abuse in juvenile detention happened years ago?
Yes. Under CPLR 214-g (the Child Victims Act), survivors of childhood sexual abuse — including abuse that occurred in juvenile detention — may file a civil claim until age 55, or within 2.5 years of discovering the abuse caused lasting harm. Time alone is not a barrier.
Can I sue the detention facility even if no one was criminally charged?
Absolutely. A civil lawsuit is entirely independent of any criminal prosecution. Facilities can be held liable under theories of negligent hiring, negligent supervision, or negligent retention — meaning the institution’s failure to protect you matters, regardless of what happened in criminal court.
Is my conversation with Banville Law confidential?
Yes. Attorney-client privilege protects everything you share from the very first contact. You are never obligated to proceed, and you decide the pace — sharing only what you are ready to share.
What if I am not ready to talk about the details yet?
You don’t have to share details before you are ready. A referral to Banville Law is a protected, no-pressure conversation at your pace, with no obligation to proceed. Taking this step takes courage, and you are in control of every next step.