Buffalo Sexual Abuse Attorneys

Advocating for Justice on Behalf of Victims

Under federal and state laws, survivors of sexual abuse are entitled to financial compensation for the damages they have suffered at the hands of their abusers. A civil sexual abuse lawsuit is separate from any criminal proceedings that may take place; a civil suit allows you to pursue financial relief for pain, suffering, medical expenses, counseling services, trauma, and other losses you have endured. And, aside from a criminal case, a civil lawsuit can allow you to obtain a much-needed sense of justice and allow you the ability to continue healing and moving forward with your life.

Recent changes to New York law (outlined in more detail below) have extended the time period in which sexual abuse survivors have to file a claim. Even if the abuse occurred years ago, you could still be entitled to take action against your abuser and/or the people and institutions that protected them.

At Horn Wright, LLP, we understand that this is not always easy. Our Buffalo sexual abuse attorneys will be with you every step of the way, fighting to protect your rights and advocate for your future with the utmost discretion and privacy. We are available 24/7 to assist you.

Contact us online or call our Buffalo office at (716) 335-9239 today to schedule a free, private consultation with one of our attorneys.

The New York Child Victims Act Allows a New Opportunity for Justice

On February 14, 2019, the New York Child Victims Act went into effect, extending the statute of limitations on child sexual abuse cases. Previously, sexual abuse survivors had only one to five years to file a civil sexual abuse lawsuit, beginning on their 18^th birthdays. However, the inherent difficulties in coming forward about sexual abuse stopped many survivors from speaking out and, as a result, many missed their chance to seek justice.

The new law allows survivors of sexual abuse to file civil lawsuits against their abusers and/or other negligent parties until the age of 55, regardless of when the abuse occurred. This applies to all cases in which the statute of limitations has not already expired.

The New York Child Victims Act also provides legal assistance to cases in which the statute of limitations has expired. Under the new law, survivors are permitted a one-time, one-year look-back period in which they can file a civil lawsuit for past sexual abuse in which the statute of limitations has passed. The look-back period began six months after the Act took effect, meaning survivors had until August 14, 2020 to bring a claim. However, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, this deadline has been extended an additional year, meaning sexual abuse survivors have until August 14, 2021 to file a civil lawsuit. 

The New York Child Victims Act also permits survivors to take civil action against various institutions that played a role in the abuse. This includes both public and private entities that may have negligently hired or employed abusers.

How Our Firm Can Help

No one should have to suffer the lasting, far-reaching effects of abuse. At Horn Wright, LLP, we are committed to helping you seek justice for the pain and distress you have endured. Our Buffalo sexual abuse attorneys understand the sensitive nature of these cases and will always work directly with you to ensure your comfort throughout the legal process. We will never invade your private life nor request details outside of what is necessary to build and pursue your case. Our team will also make sure that you receive consistent communication and regular updates regarding your case.

Here at Horn Wright, LLP, we know that each of our clients is a real person who has been through unimaginably trying circumstances. We always keep your best interests at the forefront of your case and will do everything in our power to hold the person or entity that caused you harm accountable.

All attorney-client communications are completely confidential and never shared with third parties. Our firm also provides contingency fees, meaning you do not owe any attorneys’ fees unless/until we recover compensation on your behalf.

To learn more, please call (716) 335-9239 and request a free, private consultation.