New York Sexual Abuse Lawyers
Helping Survivors Find Closure and Justice for 20+ Years
If you are a victim of sexual abuse or assault, our legal team at The Zalkin Law Firm, LLP can help you file a claim to hold your abuser accountable.
We understand the feelings of shame and fear that many survivors experience after undergoing such horrific trauma. That’s why our lawyers provide compassionate, caring legal counsel to you while advocating for your rights with relentless determination in the courtroom.
Through our legal representation, we have garnered a reputation as one of the most regarded and successful sexual abuse law firms in the United States.
Our New York sexual abuse lawyers have advocated for clients against large, powerful corporations with global reach, winning multi-million-dollar verdicts against them for perpetrating and/or covering up abuse.
In addition, our New York sex abuse attorneys have won awards from the National Trial Lawyers and Super Lawyers®, among others, for their work on multi-victim and single-victim sex abuse cases for hundreds of clients.
To speak to a New York sexual abuse lawyer, call The Zalkin Law Firm, LLP at (800) 477-2989 or fill out an online form.
What Is Sexual Abuse Under New York Law?
Fortunately, the state of New York punishes an extensive range of sexual abuse and assault, deeming any non-consensual sexual contact/act a crime. Some examples include the following:
- Unwanted fondling, kissing, or bodily contact with sexual intent
- Forced masturbation
- Forced oral copulation
- Sexual acts achieved through coercion
- Sexual acts achieved through violence or the threat of violence
- Forcibly using a body part or foreign object to penetrate another person
- Engaging in a sexual act with a person who cannot legally give consent
Groups who are considered unable to grant consent in the eyes of the law include people under the influence of alcohol or drugs, those deemed physically helpless, those who do not have the mental ability to understand the acts are sexual, and children under the age of consent (in New York, the age of consent is 17, but this differs from state to state).
Please note that this list is not exhaustive. A good rule of thumb to determine whether you experienced sexual assault is whether you gave consent or not, and whether a reasonable person could see that the act was inappropriate. However, it is common for victims of sexual abuse and assault to be shaken up about what happened due to trauma and shock. It is, therefore, advisable to seek the help of a medical or legal professional to discuss what happened.
New York Statute of Limitations for Sexual Abuse
As with any legal claim, sexual abuse claims must be filed within New York’s statute of limitations, which greatly changes according to which form of sexual abuse you were subjected to. In some cases, the statute of limitations is as short as two years after the date of the abuse; in others, it can be as long as 20 years.
For childhood sexual abuse claims, the statute of limitations was recently updated via the Child Victims Act, which allows survivors of child sex abuse until the age of 55 to file a claim.
With such a variety of filing deadlines, it is advisable to consult with an attorney to determine which statute of limitations applies to your case.
A Record of Success
Examples of Some of Our Successful Cases:
The Zalkin Law Firm, LLP has cultivated a record of proven success in high-stakes personal injury cases across the state of California and the U.S. As a firm experienced in fighting for victims, we have won millions in verdicts and settlements for injured victims and their families.
-
$8,000,000 Clergy Sexual Abuse
Multi-VictimMulti-victim case against a religious leader and institution.
-
$4,200,000 Clergy Sexual Abuse
Multi-VictimThree survivors abused as minors by priests associated with a Northern California Diocese.
-
$660,000,000 Clergy Sexual Abuse
Multi-VictimIrwin Zalkin was one of the lead trial lawyers and part of the trial team prepared to commence a 14 victim trial against the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Los Angeles, the day a global settlement was reached in the amount of $660,000,000.
-
$4,250,000 Child Sexual Abuse
Single Victim$4.25 Million paid to single sexual abuse Plaintiff.
-
$4,150,000 Child Sexual Abuse
Single Victim$4.15 Million paid to single sexual abuse Plaintiff.
Why Choose The Zalkin Law Firm, LLP?
-
Education
We engage in conferences, speak to professionals, and present to leaders & community members to foster education on Child Sexual Abuse
-
Litigation
We hold those accountable by taking legal action. Let us fight for you, so you can begin the healing process.
-
LegistlationWe are actively trying to change the laws and have the state legislature address the most pressing issues.
10 Steps to Take to Help Your Loved One
If your loved one is a victim of sexual abuse in New York, you must take immediate steps to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to justice.
Here are the recommended steps to take:
- Ensure Safety: The safety and well-being of the victim should be the top priority. If they are in immediate danger, contact law enforcement or emergency services.
- Seek Medical Attention: Encourage your loved one to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if there are no visible injuries. Medical professionals can document any evidence of abuse and address potential health concerns.
- Report to Law Enforcement: Report the sexual abuse to the police. Provide as much information as possible about the incident and any details regarding the perpetrator. Cooperation with law enforcement is crucial for a thorough investigation.
- Connect with Supportive Services: Encourage your loved one to seek support from organizations and agencies that specialize in assisting sexual abuse survivors. This may include local rape crisis centers, counseling services, or victim advocacy groups.
- Consult with a Sexual Abuse Lawyer: Reach out to a qualified sexual abuse lawyer to explore legal options. A lawyer, especially one experienced in handling sexual abuse cases, can provide guidance on pursuing justice and compensation.
- Document the Incident: Encourage your loved one to document the details of the incident as accurately as possible. This may include writing down what happened, preserving any evidence, and keeping a record of any communication with the perpetrator.
- Understand the Child Victims Act (CVA): If the victim is a child, be aware of the provisions of the Child Victims Act (CVA) in New York. The CVA extends the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse cases, providing an opportunity for survivors to seek justice.
- Support Emotional Well-being: Emotional support is crucial. Encourage your loved one to seek counseling or therapy to address the emotional and psychological impact of the abuse. Offer a supportive and non-judgmental presence.
- Follow Legal Proceedings: If your loved one decides to pursue legal action, support them throughout the legal process. This may involve providing information, attending court hearings, and cooperating with law enforcement and legal professionals.
- Stay Informed about Rights and Resources: Stay informed about your loved one's rights as a survivor and the available resources for support. Knowledge about available services and legal avenues can empower survivors and their families.
Leaders in Innovation, Change, & Justice
Meet Our Dedicated Team of Legal Professionals
-
I showed up to my relationship with The Zalkin Law Firm, LLP messy, terrified and in severe distress. Ryan, Devin and Irwin held space for me and all of my pain. They honored my story, treated me with kindness, and gave me a safe place to begin the healing process. The greatest gift of all is this; each time I asked for a hero, they handed me a sword. I was empowered.- Kate
-
“Having been privileged to work with these professionals, I highly recommend and trust them to handle any sexual abuse case in confidence and handled with the utmost of confidentiality and integrity anyone would desire as a victim or a survivor.”- Guy
-
“My experience with The Zalkin Law Firm, LLP has been life-altering. It was a pleasure to work with every employee at the firm. They made me feel as if they genuinely cared about me while maintaining a professional statute.”- Alex
-
“The Zalkin Law Firm, LLP does not just represent their clients, The feeling they put into their cases makes you feel like you are part of a family. I can proudly say that I am part of a brotherhood and sisterhood of genuine and caring people.”- Jason
Legal Options for Survivors of Sexual Abuse in New York
In New York, sex abuse survivors can either file a civil case or a criminal case, or both, to hold their abuser accountable. If you are seeking to recover damages from your abuser for pain and suffering, medical bills, or the like, a civil case is likely the best option. Most victims pursuing a civil case do so with the help of a professional attorney.
On the other hand, victims pursuing a criminal claim will be minimally involved in the case against their abuser, as it will take the form of a legal battle between the abuser and the state of New York. If the abuser is found guilty, the result will be a conviction and prison time. Therefore, victims filing criminal cases will not be able to receive nearly as much compensation as they would from a civil case.
Contact The Zalkin Law Firm, LLP online today to schedule a free consultation with an award-winning New York sex abuse attorneys.
