What is the Statute of Limitations for Sexual Assault in New York?

Recent New York Legislation

• For survivors of abuse that took place in New York, New York, the 2000 Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Law extends the statute of limitations from seven to nine years. This law applies to sexual and non-sexual abuse cases, such as domestic violence. For more information about this topic, please visit our page on the VGMVPL.
• For adult survivors of sexual assault, the statute of limitations in New York is generally three years. This applies to cases that occurred before 2019. However, the Adult Survivor Act (ASA) provides an extended statute of limitations of 20 years if the abuse occurred after 2019.
• For survivors under 18 at the time of the assault and before the CVA was passed on January 28, 2019, the statute of limitations expires when they turn 23.
• If the sexual abuse or assault of a minor occurred after the CVA in New York was passed, then the survivor has until they are 55 to file.

Extended Deadline for Filing Sexual Abuse Claims in New York

Victims of Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Law (New York, New York)

•  Under the Victims of Gender‑Motivated Violence Protection Law, survivors generally have 9 years to file a suit.
•  A special two‑year look‑back window lets survivors file older, time‑barred claims from March 1, 2023, through March 1, 2025.

Understanding the statute of limitations is critical if you are considering legal action for sexual abuse or assault. Once the time limit passes, courts may dismiss your case—even if your claims are valid. 

At Rheingold Giuffra Ruffo Plotkin & Hellman LLP, we offer trauma-informed, survivor-centered legal representation and are proud to help our clients pursue justice under both longstanding New York laws and newer legislative tools designed to give survivors a voice. 

Please contact our firm for a confidential consultation if you have questions about the statute of limitations or any aspect of sexual abuse cases in New York.

Adult Survivor Act

In 2022, New York enacted the Adult Survivors Act (ASA), giving adult survivors of sexual assault a one-year lookback window to file civil lawsuits—even if the statute of limitations had previously expired. 

• The ASA applied to survivors who were 18 or older at the time of the abuse. 
• The lookback window began November 24, 2022 and closed November 23, 2023. 
• It allowed civil claims against both individual abusers and institutions that enabled or failed to prevent the abuse. 

While the ASA lookback window has closed, some lawsuits filed during that period remain active. Additionally, other legal options may still be available, especially in New York City. 

Ongoing Protections Under the Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Law 

In New York City, survivors of sexual assault can also bring civil lawsuits under the Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Law (GMVPL). This law provides a separate basis for recovery, with its own statute of limitations. 

• The GMVPL allows victims to sue if the assault was “a crime of violence motivated by gender.” 
• Normally, the statute of limitations is seven years. 
• Though a special lookback window was opened in March of 2023 to allow survivors to file claims regardless of when the abuse occurred, that period just ended in February 2025.

This law has been especially important for survivors whose abuse happened decades ago, who may have been barred by other statutes of limitations. 

Understanding the Statute of Limitations in Sexual Assault Cases 

The statute of limitations refers to the time period within which a survivor must initiate legal action. In New York, these deadlines differ depending on whether the case is criminal or civil in nature. 

Criminal vs. Civil Statutes of Limitations 

• Criminal statute of limitations: This determines how long prosecutors have to file criminal charges against the alleged offender. In recent years, New York has removed or extended criminal limitations periods for certain sex crimes. 
• Civil statute of limitations: This dictates how long a survivor has to file a lawsuit seeking monetary damages. A civil lawsuit allows the survivor to hold the abuser—or responsible third parties—accountable in court, even if no criminal charges were ever filed. 

What If the Assault Happened Years Ago? 

Many survivors delay reporting their assault—sometimes for years or decades—due to fear, shame, psychological trauma, or concerns about not being believed. New York lawmakers have acknowledged this reality through recent reforms. 

Even if your abuse occurred long ago, you may still be able to file a civil lawsuit, particularly if: 

• The abuse occurred in New York City, where the GMVPL applies. 
• The abuse was part of a broader pattern, such as in a workplace or institutional setting. 
• Your case falls under a tolling exception—such as mental incapacity  

Consulting an attorney quickly is the best way to determine whether your case can move forward. 

Types of Damages Survivors May Pursue

Sexual assault survivors in New York may be eligible to receive economic and non-economic damages. Examples of these types of damages that are commonly pursued include the following:

• All medical bills, which would include psychological therapy.
• Lost wages for the past and future times you were forced to miss work due to your injuries.
• Loss of earning capacity fills the gap between what you made prior to the assault and what you are making now after experiencing this trauma.
• Physical and emotional pain and suffering.
• Loss of companionship, as many survivors’ close relationships may suffer due to the assault.
• Loss of enjoyment of life, as it may be difficult for survivors to enjoy the things they normally love.

How a Timely Filed Civil Lawsuit Can Help 

Unlike criminal prosecution, which is handled by the state, a civil sexual assault lawsuit allows the survivor to control the process and seek financial compensation for a variety of harms, including: 

• Medical and therapy costs 
• Emotional distress and psychological trauma 
• Lost wages or career opportunities 
• Pain and suffering 
• Punitive damages (in some cases) 

Importantly, survivors can often remain anonymous in civil filings, using pseudonyms such as “Jane Doe” to protect their privacy. 

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Civil Sexual Assault Lawsuit? 

While civil lawsuits often target the individual who committed the assault, other parties may also bear responsibility under New York law. 

Potentially Liable Third Parties 

• Employers or supervisors who failed to act on harassment complaints or created unsafe environments 
• Schools, religious institutions, or nonprofits that enabled abuse through negligent hiring, supervision, or cover-ups 
• Landlords, security firms, or hotels that failed to protect tenants or guests from foreseeable assaults 
• Medical professionals who used their position of trust to commit abuse 

Holding these third parties accountable can both maximize your recovery and prompt systemic change. 

Why Seek Compensation

If you are a survivor of a sexual assault, then you have likely sustained significant physical, emotional, and financial trauma. While the legal system cannot undo what happened, it can help you achieve justice in the form of monetary compensation and hold your abuser accountable. This may provide peace of mind, some semblance of closure, and a genuine opportunity to rebuild your life.

Our New York sexual abuse and assault attorneys at Rheingold Giuffra Ruffo Plotkin & Hellman, LLP suggest that you consult with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible to learn about your legal rights and whether or not you are eligible to file a claim.

How Rheingold Law Can Help You 

Our firm filed numerous civil claims under the Adult Survivors Act and we encourage victims of abuse in NYC to discuss their case with our skilled team. We pride ourselves on the individualized attention that is given to each case. Civil sexual abuse cases are handled by our internationally recognized partner, Thomas P. Giuffra, who has represented clients in high-profile cases such as those against Harvey Weinstein and is currently representing survivors in cases against Sean “P. Diddy” Combs.  

We approach each case with respect, discretion, and a commitment to justice. We also work with medical experts, forensic analysts, and psychotherapists to build the strongest possible case on your behalf. 

Talk to a New York Sexual Assault Attorney Today 

Every survivor’s path to justice is unique. Whether you are unsure about the statute of limitations or seeking answers about who may be liable, we are here to listen and advise. 

Contact Rheingold Giuffra Ruffo Plotkin & Hellman LLP today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We are honored to help you explore your legal options and advocate for the accountability you deserve.