The New York Child Victims Act, heralded for creating an opportunity for the victims of child sex abuse to bring actions against their assailants, goes into effect August 14, 2019. Many of the victims of child sex abuse in New York and across the nation have suffered in silence for decades. In years past, little was done to protect children and to expose the horrors inflicted upon them.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed this bill into law, which takes effect on August 14. Under that law, the victims of child sex abuse, whether caused by sexual abuse by catholic priests, ministers, clergy, school principals and teachers, Boy Scout leaders or others.
As reported by the New York Post:
The new law opens up a so-called “look-back window” for one year and one year only, allowing victims of any age to seek civil action against their abusers, regardless of how long ago the abuse happened.
After the one year, which only applies to civil action, victims have up until the age of 55 to file a lawsuit against their abusers and the institutions that enabled the abuse to go on.
With thousands of cases expected statewide, it is believed thousands more have yet to come forward. Some do not know of their rights, others remain intimidated. It is important for all victims to know that they do have rights, that attorneys are willing to fight on their side, and those that allowed sexual abuse to happen know that they will be held accountable.
“The victims of sexual abuse no longer have to face the suffering alone,” explains David Krangle, Esq, cofounder and partner at Alonso Krangle LLP. After years and decades of suffering, they will finally have their opportunity for justice.
“Cases are not limited to sexual abuse claims against priests and the church,” notes Andres Alonso, Esq., cofounder and partner at Alonso Krangle. “Schools, Boy Scout troops, daycare centers, organizations and others who sexually abuse children can be held liable. Other individuals, such as Jeffrey Epstein – who allegedly sexually abused under-age girls – could also be held liable under this law.”
If you were a loved one was sexually abused by a priest, religious leader, teacher or other person, it is imperative that you come forward and speak with our lawyers quickly. The window of opportunity to bring these lawsuits is limited and individual should take action as soon as possible.
For additional information, please contact our attorneys today. All calls are strictly confidential. Call 800-403-6191 now.