New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has signed legislation (S7082/A9036) extending the “look back” window for victims to file claims under the Child Victims Act, regardless of when or how long ago the alleged abuse occurred. Due to the COVID-19 public health emergency, on May 8, Governor Cuomo issued an executive order extending the window until January 14, 2021. The new legislation extends the special filing period by a full year and claims can now be filed under the Child Victims Act until August 14, 2021.
Last year, Governor Cuomo signed the Child Victims Act to ensure survivors of childhood sexual abuse have a path to justice, including the ability to file a case regardless of when the abuse occurred.
The Child Victim's Act:
- Increases the amount of time during which perpetrators of these crimes may be held criminally accountable;
- Allows victims of these crimes to commence a civil lawsuit at any time before they reach 55 years of age;
- Provides survivors seeking to file actions against public and private institutions for previously time-barred claims a new opportunity for their day in court by opening a one-year window, now extended to two years, for them to commence their civil action;
- Eliminates the need to file a notice of claim for sexual offenses committed against a minor.
Are you considering talking to an attorney about New York’s Child Victims Act claim? At, Brandon J Broderick, Attorney at Law, we believe in compassion and empathy and want to help. Contact us for a free consultation. With our proven track record of success, we can get you the justice you deserve.