“Sexual abuse cases, such as Harvey Weinstein and Sean ‘P. Diddy’ Combs, are not just about sex. They are about power, manipulation, and the control of another person; usually someone in a subordinate position. I have been representing survivors of such abuse for the majority of my legal career. I am proud to represent them and assist them in regaining their power, their dignity, and their lives.”
Updated March 6th, 2026
Survivors of sexual abuse in New York have specific time limits for filing civil lawsuits. These deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, vary depending on:
Recent legislation has significantly expanded survivors’ rights. In some cases, individuals who believed they were time-barred may still have options.
The Child Victims Act (CVA), passed in 2019, transformed civil sexual abuse law in New York.
The CVA included a temporary revival window, which has since closed, but the age-55 civil filing rule remains in effect.
New York extended the statute of limitations in 2019 for certain felony sexual offenses.
The Adult Survivors Act (ASA), enacted in 2022, created a one-year revival window (November 24, 2022 – November 23, 2023) that allowed previously time-barred adult claims to proceed. That window is now closed, though cases filed during that period remain active.
If the abuse occurred in New York City, survivors may have an additional legal pathway under the Victims of Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Law (GMVPL).
This law:
Outside of revival windows, GMVPL claims generally must be filed within seven years of the offense, with limited extensions in cases involving infancy or disability.
In 2026, New York City enacted an amendment creating a new 18-month revival window for certain gender-motivated violence claims that occurred before January 9, 2022, even if the previous statute of limitations had expired.
This revival window is currently open and is scheduled to close on July 29, 2027.
For many survivors whose abuse occurred years or even decades ago within NYC, this may be a critical opportunity.
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. Attorney Giuffra is currently investigating cases against Sean “P. Diddy” Combs.
Contact us if you have questions about the new legislation and would like further clarification and expert guidance.
For a free and confidential consultation with our legal team, complete this form or call (212) 684-1880.
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.
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:
Consulting an attorney quickly is the best way to determine whether your case can move forward.
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:
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:
Importantly, survivors can often remain anonymous in civil filings, using pseudonyms such as “Jane Doe” to protect their privacy.
While civil lawsuits often target the individual who committed the assault, other parties may also bear responsibility under New York law.
Holding these third parties accountable can both maximize your recovery and prompt systemic change.
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.
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.
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.
Call (212) 684-1880 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation with our sexual abuse and assault survivor lawyers in New York.
