New York Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Updates

Experienced Law Firm Helping Sexual Abuse Victims in New York Seek Justice Through Civil Lawsuits

If you’re considering filing a New York sexual abuse lawsuit, you’re not alone—and you may have more legal options than you realize.

Thanks to survivor-centered legislation like the Child Victims Act and Adult Survivors Act, many people who were sexually abused as children or adults in New York now have the opportunity to file civil lawsuits, even if their claims were previously time-barred by the statute of limitations.

The Injury Lawyer Team represents sexual abuse victims throughout the state—those who were sexually assaulted or exploited in schools, churches, residential treatment facilities, hospitals, youth programs, or while under the care of trusted professionals.

Whether the abuse occurred decades ago or more recently, the trauma and emotional distress caused by childhood abuse, sexual violence, and institutional betrayal last a lifetime.

A New York sexual abuse lawsuit offers more than compensation—it provides a legal path to accountability, validation, and healing. Survivors may be eligible for damages related to emotional pain, therapy, lost wages, and in some cases, punitive damages.

We offer a free, confidential consultation to help survivors understand their legal rights, explore all available legal avenues, and take the next step in the legal process with clarity and support.

Recent Updates on Sexual Abuse Lawsuits in New York

June 12, 2025 – Hundreds Recorded in Northwell Sleep Center Bathrooms

A former employee of the Northwell Sleep Disorders Center in Manhasset, Sanjai Syamaprasad, is facing criminal charges for allegedly installing a hidden camera disguised as a smoke detector in nine bathrooms at the facility. Prosecutors claim he secretly recorded videos of coworkers and patients—including children—between October 2022 and April 2024.

The Nassau County district attorney’s office is investigating and has sent out 13,000 letters to possible victims. Hundreds may have been affected, and class action lawsuits are now underway.

Syamaprasad was reportedly caught in 2024 watching the footage at work and was immediately removed from his position. He has pleaded not guilty and is also under investigation for similar incidents at a Weill Cornell sleep center in Manhattan.

June 9, 2025 – Buffalo Diocese to Pay $80 Million Toward $150 Million Clergy Abuse Bankruptcy Settlement

The Diocese of Buffalo, New York, has agreed to contribute $80 million toward a $150 million bankruptcy settlement resolving nearly 900 sexual abuse claims, most filed under New York’s Child Victims Act.

Of the contribution, $30 million will come from the diocese itself, $10 million from affiliated Catholic organizations, and the rest through church property sales. The diocese also expects to secure $150 million in insurance payouts, though negotiations with insurers are ongoing.

The settlement ends a five-year legal battle that began in 2020 and includes Buffalo clergy abuse claims from both childhood and adult survivors. About half of the parishes in the diocese were implicated. Payments are due into a trust by July 15.

Church leaders expressed regret over past failures and emphasized the goal of restitution and moving forward. The Diocese is also restructuring, planning to merge or close 80 churches, and is hosting meetings to explain financial contributions to local parishes.

May 28, 2025 – Buffalo Public Schools Facing Legal Action Over Alleged Sexual Abuse and Cover-Ups

A legal complaint against Buffalo Public Schools is pending, representing at least a dozen victims who allege they were sexually abused by staff or others affiliated with the school. The complaint details allegations of mandated reporter failures, disciplinary misconduct, and cover-ups of sexual abuse.

Buffalo sexual abuse lawyers expect the number of victims to grow and are calling for accountability and compensation for survivors, many of whom were underage at the time of the alleged abuse.

Separately, Buffalo police detective Richard Hy previously accused the district of obstructing investigations and covering up abuse, claims that gained attention through podcasts and public statements. In response, the school board has launched an external investigation and held multiple closed-door meetings.

May 19, 2025 – Lawsuits Allege Widespread Child Sexual Abuse at Four Winds Psychiatric Hospitals in New York

Roughly two dozen lawsuits have been filed in Westchester County alleging child sexual abuse at Four Winds psychiatric hospitals in Katonah and Saratoga Springs, New York.

According to psychiatric hospital sexual abuse lawyers, victims were minors—some as young as 5 or 6—when the alleged abuse occurred. The lawsuits detail shocking claims, including staff forcing patients to perform sexual acts and abuse occurring during showers.

Four Winds has denied the allegations, claiming no awareness of the abuse. Plaintiffs argue the hospital fostered an environment where abuse went unchecked and victims were silenced or disbelieved. The lawsuits span incidents from 2000 through 2023 and emphasize the long-term trauma survivors now face as adults.

May 6, 2025 – Columbia University to Pay $750 Million in Sexual Abuse Settlement

A New York state court approved a $750 million settlement for 576 women sexually abused by former OB-GYN Robert Hadden at Columbia University and New York Presbyterian Hospital.

The hospital sexual abuse lawsuit payout—averaging $1.3 million per survivor—is among the largest per-plaintiff civil settlements in U.S. history.

The victims, many of whom were young women or pregnant patients, accused Columbia of ignoring early complaints and enabling Hadden’s abuse for decades. Evidence revealed the university was aware of Hadden’s misconduct as early as 1995, undermining previous denials.

Columbia has now paid over $1 billion in total across multiple settlements and admitted institutional failures. The case highlights the consequences of prioritizing reputation over patient safety.

March 21, 2025 – Abercrombie & Fitch Faces Widespread Sex Abuse and Trafficking Allegations Tied to Former CEO

More than 40 men have accused Jeffries of sexual assault, rape, and sex trafficking, including incidents dating back to the 1990s. The lawsuits claim that Jeffries used modelling opportunities as a pretense to sexually abuse young men, sometimes alongside his British partner, Matthew Smith, and alleged recruiter James Jacobson.

Several civil lawsuits have been filed, including two recent cases in New York. In those, plaintiffs claim they were sexually abused after being lured to A&F-themed events under false pretenses.

Victims also allege they were forced to undergo penis injections, coerced into sexual acts, or recorded without consent. Some of the alleged incidents occurred in the Hamptons, Miami, and international locations.

Key allegations include:

• Sex trafficking and prostitution ring operated across the U.S. and Europe.
• Use of power imbalance and manipulation during casting and interviews.
• Negligence claims against Abercrombie & Fitch for enabling the abuse.
• Emotional and physical coercion of men, many in their late teens or early twenties.

Jeffries, Smith, and Jacobson have all denied the allegations or pleaded not guilty to any criminal charges. Despite public denials, Jeffries is under house arrest while facing investigation and civil sex trafficking lawsuits involving at least 26 named victims, with potentially over 100 total victims.

A&F has said it had no knowledge of misconduct and has since cut ties with Jeffries. U.S. prosecutors say criminal cases are underway, and a court has ordered A&F to pay Jeffries’ legal fees, prompting further public scrutiny.

March 6, 2025 – New York Court Sanctions Catholic School in Childhood Sexual Abuse Case

A New York court sanctioned Our Lady of Guadalupe Church and School (OLG) and its attorneys for discovery misconduct in a sexual abuse lawsuit filed under the Child Victims Act. The case was brought by a woman who alleges she was sexually abused by a teacher while attending OLG.

The court found that OLG and its legal team engaged in obstruction by failing to search for relevant documents, submitting a misleading affidavit, and falsely claiming they had complied with discovery. The court awarded $10,000 in sanctions and ruled the conduct violated legal rules prohibiting frivolous litigation tactics.

This decision is seen as a major victory for survivors and sexual abuse lawyers in New York City, reinforcing that institutions cannot evade accountability through bad-faith legal maneuvers, especially in cases involving childhood sexual abuse.

March 3, 2025 – Brooklyn Teacher Pleads Guilty to Exploiting Students in Sex Abuse Case

A Brooklyn private school teacher has pleaded guilty to multiple charges of sexually abusing students, admitting to manipulating and coercing minors into performing sexual acts over a period of years. The abuse involved both in-person misconduct and the creation of explicit content.

Prosecutors revealed that the teacher used his position of trust to exploit students and hide his actions from school officials and parents. He now faces a 7-year prison sentence, followed by post-release supervision. Authorities and school sexual abuse lawyers are encouraging additional victims to come forward as the investigation continues.

November 4, 2024 – Appeals Court Says Child Victims Act Covers Abuse That Happened Outside New York

In a landmark decision, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that a former child model can pursue her sexual abuse claims under New York’s Child Victims Act (CVA), even though the abuse happened in Paris.

The case, Sutton v. Tapscott, had been dismissed by a lower court, but the appeals court found that the CVA applies if the survivor was a New York resident at the time of the abuse. The ruling strengthens protections for survivors abused outside the state and found that the defendant may have known about the abuser’s history, supporting a claim of negligence.

June 12, 2024 – Abuse and Neglect at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, Acadia Healthcare, Universal Health Services, and Vivant Behavioral Healthcare

A Senate Finance Committee investigation found widespread abuse, neglect, and civil rights violations at several youth residential treatment centers, including Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, Acadia Healthcare, Universal Health Services (UHS), and Vivant Behavioral Healthcare.

The report highlights issues like understaffing, sexual misconduct by staff, excessive use of restraints, and overmedication. Many of these facilities operate with little oversight while profiting from public funds, particularly Medicaid.

Lawmakers and New York residential treatment facility sexual abuse lawyers are calling for reform, stricter staffing standards, and better protections for vulnerable children in these facilities.

June 12, 2024 – Hundreds Sue NYC Juvenile Facilities for Sexual Abuse Under Gender-Motivated Violence Law

More than 250 civil lawsuits have been filed against New York City’s juvenile detention centers — including Crossroads Juvenile Center — alleging widespread sexual abuse by guards, counselors, and other staff.

These lawsuits were filed under the Gender Motivated Violence Protection Act, which temporarily expands the statute of limitations for survivors. Allegations include rape, forced oral sex, and other sexual acts, as well as manipulation and coercion of youth detainees.

Critics say the city’s juvenile justice system fosters a “culture of secrecy” that enables abuse, and advocates are demanding systemic reform.

What Constitutes Sexual Abuse and Assault Under New York Law?

In New York, sexual abuse and sexual assault are defined under both criminal and civil law. Understanding the legal distinctions is critical for survivors who may be weighing criminal prosecution against the option of filing a civil lawsuit for damages.

Criminal sexual offenses are governed by New York Penal Law Article 130, which covers a wide range of sex crimes—including forcible touching, sexual abuse, sexual misconduct, rape, and criminal sexual act.

These offenses are classified based on factors such as the age of the victim, whether force or coercion was used, and whether the defendant was in a position of power or trust.

For example:

• Sexual Abuse in the First Degree (§130.65) applies when there is forcible sexual contact or if the victim is incapable of consent due to age or mental capacity.
• Rape (§130.25–130.35) addresses non-consensual vaginal intercourse, with degrees depending on age, force, and other circumstances.

Conviction of a criminal sex offense requires prosecutors to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt, which is the highest standard of proof under the law.

Separate from the criminal justice process, survivors can also bring civil lawsuits under New York tort law, which allows them to seek compensation for the emotional, psychological, and financial harm caused by abuse.

Civil lawsuits commonly include claims of:

• Negligent supervision
• Intentional infliction of emotional distress
• Battery
• Failure to protect
• Institutional negligence—when schools, churches, medical facilities, or other organizations enable or ignore abuse.

In civil court, the burden of proof is significantly lower. Plaintiffs must only show that the abuse “more likely than not” occurred. This standard, known as the preponderance of the evidence, makes civil litigation more accessible to survivors.

How Do You Prove an Institution Is Responsible for Sexual Abuse?

In most sexual abuse lawsuits, the individual perpetrator may face criminal charges, but they often lack the financial resources to provide meaningful compensation through a civil claim.

That’s why many civil sex abuse cases focus on holding institutions—like schools, churches, youth programs, foster agencies, and hospitals—legally accountable for failing to prevent the abuse.

Under New York law, a supervising institution can be held liable if it “knew or should have known” about the abuser’s risk of harming others and failed to take reasonable steps to stop it.

Even though abuse typically occurs in private, institutions can still be found negligent if there were warning signs they ignored. In many cases, perpetrators displayed red flags long before the abuse occurred: sexual harassment, grooming behaviors, inappropriate contact with minors, policy violations, or past misconduct that was overlooked or buried.

Our sexual abuse attorneys often uncover patterns of institutional failures, such as hiring someone with a known history, failing to investigate complaints, or ignoring staff members who raised concerns.

Critically, a school, church, or company doesn’t have to admit fault to be held responsible. If an institution lacked proper safety protocols or failed to enforce them, it could still be liable for allowing the abuse to happen. Civil courts look at whether the institution had systems in place to prevent harm and whether reasonable steps were taken to protect people under its care.

That’s what makes these claims not just about individual wrongdoing, but about systemic accountability.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a New York Sex Abuse Lawsuit?

Individuals who directly commit sexual abuse can be sued in civil court. These include teachers, coaches, clergy, doctors, and other authority figures. They can be sued for the direct sexual abuse and emotional trauma caused to victims, but their personal assets often fall short of covering the full extent of damages.

Organizations that employed or supervised abusers can be sued for negligence or enabling abuse. They typically carry insurance and have deeper financial resources.

• Churches and Other Religious Institutions can be held liable for covering up abuse, moving known abusers between parishes, and failing to report clergy misconduct to police or parishioners.
• Public Schools can be sued for employing or retaining abusive teachers, coaches, or staff members and failing to investigate reports of student-on-student abuse. Districts may also be liable for negligent supervision or policy failures.
• Youth Organizations have faced lawsuits for failing to screen volunteers, ignoring abuse complaints, or assigning minors to abusive troop leaders.
• Healthcare Facilities have been held responsible for sexual abuse by medical staff. They can be sued for negligent hiring, failing to respond to patient complaints, and allowing repeat misconduct.
• Residential Treatment Centers may be liable for staff sexual abuse, unsafe conditions, or inadequate oversight. These lawsuits often allege systemic neglect, understaffing, and failure to protect vulnerable youth.
• Employers and Corporations can be sued when executives or staff engage in abuse during business-related activities.
• Private Schools and Academies can face claims for failing to prevent or report abuse by faculty, coaches, or staff. These cases may also involve failure to act on prior warnings or complaints.
• Juvenile Detention Centers and Foster Agencies can be sued for abuse by guards, counselors, or foster parents. Institutions are often held liable for ignoring signs of abuse, failing to vet placements, or allowing unsafe environments to persist.

How Long Do I Have to File a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit in New York?

New York has dramatically expanded the time survivors have to file sexual abuse lawsuits—thanks to two major legislative reforms: the Child Victims Act (CVA) and the Adult Survivors Act (ASA). These laws created special “lookback windows” for previously barred claims and extended the deadlines for new abuse cases.

Signed into law in 2019, the CVA amended New York’s Civil Practice Law and Rules, giving survivors of child sexual abuse a chance to file lawsuits regardless of when the abuse occurred. The CVA included a special lookback window that ran from August 14, 2019, to August 13, 2021, allowing survivors to sue even if their claims had previously expired under the old statute.

In addition to the lookback window, the CVA also permanently extended the civil statute of limitations for child sex abuse. Survivors now have until their 55th birthday to file a civil lawsuit. For criminal prosecution, the law permits:

• Felony charges to be filed until the survivor turns 28
• Misdemeanor charges to be filed until the survivor turns 25

The ASA, enacted in May 2022 (Chapter 203 of the Laws of 2022), opened a one-year lookback window for adult survivors of sexual abuse—those who were 18 or older at the time of the abuse. This window ran from November 24, 2022, to November 24, 2023, and allowed previously time-barred civil claims to move forward.

Although the ASA window has now closed, lawsuits filed during that period are still moving through the courts.

If a case isn’t covered by the CVA or ASA, the following general deadlines may apply:

One to three years from the date of the abuse (or discovery of harm) for most civil sexual assault claims (CPLR § 214(5); CPLR § 215(3))

Two years from the conclusion of a related criminal case, if the victim wants to sue the convicted perpetrator (CPLR § 213-b)

These rules can be complex, and the specific deadline depends on the survivor’s age at the time of abuse, the nature of the case, and whether the defendant is an individual or an institution. Because missing the deadline can permanently bar your claim, it’s critical to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to understand your options.

What is the Average Payout for a New York Sex Abuse Lawsuit?

Payouts in New York sex abuse lawsuits can vary widely depending on the specifics of the case, but data shows that the average settlement is approximately $8.6 million, while the median payout is $915,000.

This gap reflects how a small number of high-profile cases—such as those involving major institutions or large survivor groups—can significantly raise the average. Most cases, however, tend to fall closer to the median.

Factors like the duration of abuse, the age of the victim, institutional negligence, and emotional or financial harm all play a role in determining settlement amounts.

What Affects Payouts in Sexual Abuse Lawsuits?

Settlement or jury verdict amounts in New York sexual abuse lawsuits vary widely, from hundreds of thousands to tens of millions. Several key factors determine how much a survivor may recover in a civil case:

• Severity and Duration of the Abuse – Cases involving repeated abuse over months or years, or involving violent sexual acts, often result in higher compensation. Survivors who were very young at the time of abuse, or who endured extreme trauma, tend to receive larger payouts.
• Emotional and Psychological Impact – Payouts reflect the depth of suffering. Survivors who experience long-term effects like PTSD, depression, suicidal ideation, or institutionalization may receive higher awards for emotional distress. Expert testimony and therapy records can help support these claims.
• Institutional Negligence or Cover-Up – When a church, school, hospital, or employer ignored warnings, failed to supervise known offenders, or actively concealed the abuse — as seen in the Diocese of Buffalo bankruptcy case — courts may award higher damages to reflect the institution’s responsibility and wrongdoing.
• Evidence and Documentation – The strength of the survivor’s evidence can influence outcomes. This includes testimony, witness accounts, internal records, emails, prior complaints, or admissions of guilt.
• Number of Victims and Pattern of Abuse – Class action suits or cases with multiple accusers often show a clear institutional failure. In mass torts, settlements increase when plaintiffs show a pattern of systemic abuse over time.
• Age and Status of the Perpetrator or Victim – New York law considers the age of the victim at the time of abuse. Cases involving children under the age of consent or adults in institutional care tend to carry greater liability. Abuse by authority figures — clergy, teachers, doctors — also leads to higher payouts due to breach of trust.
• Publicity and Institutional Reputation – Well-known institutions sometimes settle for more to avoid high-profile trials, negative press, or long discovery.
• Punitive Damages and Jury Awards – In rare cases, courts may award punitive damages to punish especially reckless conduct. These are separate from compensation for medical bills or emotional harm and can raise the total award substantially.

Notable New York Sexual Assault Lawsuit Settlements & Verdicts

Queens Student Files Civil Suit Against Former Teacher for Sexual Abuse

In February 2024, a federal jury awarded $150 million in damages to a former student of Francis Lewis High School in Queens who was sexually abused by her social studies teacher, Mark Waltzer.

The plaintiff, identified as Jane Doe, alleged that the abuse began in 2000 when she was 15 and continued until she dropped out of school in 2002. According to her testimony, the abuse included non-consensual sex and coercion into an abortion, leaving her with lasting emotional trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder.

The lawsuit named multiple school officials and the New York City Board of Education as defendants. All but Waltzer were dismissed from the case following a pre-trial settlement. The trial proceeded solely against Waltzer.

The jury found Waltzer liable for sexual assault and awarded $100 million in compensatory damages and $50 million in punitive damages.

Survivor of Childhood Sexual Abuse Files a Civil Case Against Family Friend

In a landmark civil trial under New York’s Child Victims Act, a woman identified as Jane Doe was awarded $100 million in damages for years of sexual abuse she endured at the hands of a close family friend, Joseph King.

The abuse began in 2008 when Doe was just 12 years old and continued until she was 16, taking place at multiple locations, including her home, King’s residence, and his vehicle.

King pleaded guilty to child endangerment in 2013, but it wasn’t until New York’s Child Victims Act extended the statute of limitations that Doe was able to file a lawsuit at age 27. After King failed to appear in court, a default judgment was entered against him on the issue of liability, and the case proceeded to a jury trial on damages.

Doe alleged that the prolonged abuse caused severe psychological harm, including PTSD, flashbacks, humiliation, and loss of self-worth, requiring ongoing therapy and mental health treatment. The jury awarded her $30 million for past pain and suffering, $20 million for future pain and suffering, and $50 million in punitive damages.

Jury Award to YMCA Sexual Abuse Survivor in Buffalo

A Buffalo woman identified as LG Forty-Six Doe was awarded $65 million in damages after a jury found that she endured years of childhood sexual abuse by James Jackson, a former employee of the East Ferry Street YMCA.

The plaintiff, who met Jackson at age 4 or 5, alleged that the abuse began when she was 7 or 8 and continued until she was around 15. She testified that Jackson groomed her through gifts, rides, and personal attention before the abuse escalated to sexual assault and rape.

The YMCA sexual abuse lawsuit was brought under New York’s Child Victims Act, which allows survivors of childhood sexual abuse to pursue civil claims beyond the previously limited statute of limitations. Jackson did not appear in court, resulting in a default judgment on liability. The jury trial proceeded solely to determine the amount of damages.

The jury awarded $20 million for past compensatory damages, $20 million for future damages, and $25 million in punitive damages.

What Types of Compensation Can You Recover in a New York Sexual Abuse Lawsuit?

Survivors of sexual abuse in New York may be entitled to significant financial compensation through a civil lawsuit. Here are the most common types of compensation available:

• Pain and suffering: This includes compensation for the emotional trauma, mental anguish, and psychological impact of the abuse. Courts recognize the long-term effects of sexual abuse, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and loss of trust.
• Medical expenses: Survivors can recover costs for both past and future medical treatment, including therapy, psychiatric care, hospitalization, and other mental health services.
• Lost wages and future earnings: If the abuse affected your ability to work—either through missed time, reduced earning potential, or an inability to continue in your career—you may be able to recover compensation for lost income.
• Punitive damages: In some cases, courts award punitive damages to punish especially reckless or malicious behavior and to send a message to other institutions that such misconduct won’t be tolerated.
• Other out-of-pocket costs: These can include relocation expenses, tuition losses, or any other financial burdens that resulted directly from the abuse.

What to Do Following Sexual Assault in New York

If you or someone you care about was sexually abused in New York—whether recently or many years ago—there are steps you can take right now to protect your rights and start the process of healing.

First, if the abuse is ongoing or has just happened, get to a safe place and call 911 or your local police department. Reporting the abuse to law enforcement is important not only for your safety but also for creating a record of what occurred.

New York also offers confidential support through sexual assault crisis centers and a statewide hotline that connects survivors with resources. The NYPD and the New York Attorney General’s Office provide online guides and links to services for crime victims, including counseling, shelter, and medical care.

If the abuse was recent, avoid bathing, changing clothes, or brushing your teeth until you’ve been examined by medical professionals trained in handling sexual assault cases. These medical examinations preserve crucial DNA evidence. Document what happened in as much detail as you can, including dates, locations, and names. Take photos of any visible injuries.

Finally, consider speaking with an experienced New York sexual abuse attorney. Whether you’re ready to file a civil lawsuit or just want help understanding your legal rights, the right legal team can offer confidential guidance and help you figure out the best path forward. You’re not alone—and there are people ready to help you seek justice.

How Our New York Sexual Abuse Attorneys Can Help

At the Injury Lawyer Team, we’re here to help you take back your power and pursue justice. When you reach out to us, we start by listening—really listening—to your story in a confidential, compassionate consultation.

We understand how hard it can be to speak about what happened, and we never rush the process. Our goal is to make you feel safe, heard, and supported from the start.

Once we understand the facts of your case, we get to work. Our team gathers the evidence—documents, witness accounts, expert opinions—and begins building a strong legal claim.

We’ll investigate whether any institutions failed in their duty to protect you and look at who can be held accountable. We also evaluate the full extent of the harm you’ve suffered so we can pursue the maximum compensation available under New York law.

We’ll handle every part of the legal process for you, from filing paperwork to negotiating with the other side to going to trial if that’s what it takes. You won’t have to face this alone. We’re here to stand by your side—fighting for accountability, healing, and closure.

FAQs

Can I still file a sex abuse lawsuit in New York if the abuse happened decades ago?

Yes. Thanks to the Child Victims Act and Adult Survivors Act, New York allows victims to file civil lawsuits even for abuse that occurred decades ago. These laws created special “lookback windows” for previously time-barred claims. If the window is still open or if your case meets other criteria, you may still have legal options.

Who are the biggest defendants in New York sex abuse lawsuits?

Some of the most frequently named defendants include the Roman Catholic dioceses across New York, public and private schools, youth organizations like the Boy Scouts, healthcare institutions such as Columbia University and New York Presbyterian Hospital Queens, and residential treatment centers like Devereux and Acadia. These cases often involve claims of institutional negligence.

What are some of the most disturbing allegations in New York residential treatment centers?

Allegations include sexual abuse by staff, physical assaults, overuse of restraints, forced medication, and children being left unsupervised in unsafe environments. Facilities named in investigations include Devereux, Acadia, Vivant, and Universal Health Services. A Senate report recently detailed systemic failures and widespread mistreatment in these institutions.

What are the biggest sex abuse lawsuits against the Catholic Church in New York?

With many priests accused of abuse in New York, Catholic dioceses have collectively paid out over $700 million in settlements related to sexual abuse claims involving young boys, with several cases still ongoing.

The Diocese of Buffalo reached a $150 million bankruptcy settlement in 2025 to resolve nearly 900 claims, with additional insurance payouts potentially doubling that amount. The Diocese of Rockville Centre has paid over $200 million following its 2020 bankruptcy, while the Diocese of Rochester settled for approximately $148 million after filing in 2019.

Syracuse’s diocese reached a $100 million settlement in 2023. Other dioceses, including Albany and Ogdensburg, have also filed for bankruptcy but have not finalized their payouts.

The Archdiocese of New York has not filed for bankruptcy but has paid at least $87 million through its Independent Reconciliation and Compensation Program. The Diocese of Brooklyn, which also avoided bankruptcy, paid $27.5 million in a single high-profile case involving four victims.

Can I sue if my rapist was never criminally charged?

Yes. A civil lawsuit does not require a criminal conviction. Even if the abuser was never charged or was found not guilty in a criminal case, you can still pursue civil damages for the harm you suffered. Civil cases use a lower burden of proof—“preponderance of the evidence”—making it easier to hold someone accountable.

What happens if the church or school claims they didn’t know about the abuse?

Institutions may claim ignorance, but that does not automatically release them from liability. If they failed to properly screen, supervise, or respond to complaints, they can be held accountable for negligence. Many cases succeed by showing the institution ignored warning signs or enabled abuse through inaction.

When should I contact a lawyer?

You should contact an attorney as soon as you’re ready to explore your legal options, whether the abuse happened recently or decades ago. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can begin protecting your rights and preserving important evidence.

Who can file a sexual abuse lawsuit in New York?

Anyone who has experienced sexual abuse in New York—whether as a child or adult—can file a civil lawsuit if they meet the eligibility requirements. This includes people who were abused in institutions like schools, churches, correctional facilities, or by individuals in positions of trust. Parents or guardians can file on behalf of minors, and survivors who were abused decades ago may still have legal options under special laws like the Child Victims Act or the Adult Survivors Act.

How much does a New York City sexual abuse lawyer cost?

At the Injury Lawyer Team, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case or secure a settlement on your behalf. This approach allows survivors to pursue justice without worrying about legal bills or hourly fees.

Can I file a sexual abuse lawsuit against someone who is no longer alive?

Yes. Even if the perpetrator has died, you may still have a valid claim, especially if an institution like a school, church, or employer contributed to the abuse or failed to stop it. In many cases, the focus shifts to holding organizations accountable for negligence, cover-ups, or improper supervision. Civil sexual abuse claims can proceed as long as you meet the legal filing deadlines.

How can I file a lawsuit for sex abuse in New York?

Start by consulting with an experienced New York sexual abuse lawyer. They can assess whether your claim is within the statute of limitations or qualifies under the Child Victims Act or Adult Survivors Act. Your lawyer will help gather evidence, file the complaint in civil court, and guide you through every step of the legal process. Most firms offer a free and confidential consultation.

Book a Free Consultation with a New York Sexual Abuse Lawyer Today

If you or someone you care about has experienced sexual abuse in New York—whether it happened recently or decades ago—you have the right to seek justice. You don’t have to navigate the legal system alone. The Injury Lawyer Team is here to provide compassionate, confidential guidance and help you understand your legal options.

Whether you’re considering filing a civil lawsuit or just need answers about your rights, our New York sexual abuse attorneys are here to listen, support you, and advocate for the accountability you deserve. To book a free consultation, call (866) 757-6452 or send a confidential message through our online contact form.

We provide legal counsel to sexual abuse victims throughout New York, including:

• Buffalo
• New York City
• Rochester
• Syracuse
• Yonkers