Sexual Assault Attorney in New York, NY

Who Is Liable for a New York, NY, Sexual Assault?

Civil liability for sexual assault can extend beyond the individual perpetrator in New York. Liable parties could include businesses, employers, institutions, schools, churches, clubs, and other entities if the party enabled the abuse. Our co-counsels build cases against perpetrators and other parties who caused harm.

You could have a case against another party if they knew or should have known about the risk of sexual misconduct and failed to prevent it.

Your sexual assault lawyer can assess your options and determine the best approach for your case. New York State has numerous laws that could provide the framework for pursuing accountability and compensation. The best fit for your case will depend on its unique factors.

What Are the Recoverable Damages in a New York Sexual Assault Civil Case?

Survivors of sexual assault can seek a payout for the harm they endured. The value of damages recovered varies from case to case because each circumstance is unique. The severity of the sexual assault, the effect on daily life, and the conduct of the liable party could all play a role. Recoverable damages frequently include:

• Economic Damages: Economic damages are tangible losses for medical care, therapy expenses, lost income, and other related costs.
• Non-Economic Damages: Non-economic damages address the intangible harm suffered, including pain and suffering and emotional distress.

How Your Attorney Will Build a Compelling New York Sexual Assault Civil Case

Winning a sexual assault case in New York requires taking many steps to develop a compelling argument that shows the abuse occurred, who perpetrated it, and what other parties played a role in enabling it. Some of the steps your lawyer may take to recover compensation for you and hold the at-fault parties accountable include:

• Gathering, preserving, and reviewing all relevant evidence and documentation
• Identifying all potentially liable parties, including the perpetrator
• Working with experts to strengthen the case as needed
• Filing a lawsuit within the applicable statute of limitations
• Negotiating for a fair settlement, which is often possible
• Preparing and representing you in court if continued litigation is necessary

Our law firm partners will fight to protect your best interests throughout this process. This includes advocating for your privacy and ensuring you have the support and resources to focus on your emotional well-being.

Our Team Has Strategic Partnerships With Trusted Co-Counsels in New York

For more than 20 years, The Goldwater Law Firm has built a reputation for success. This includes strategic partnerships with law firms serving all 50 states. Our co-counsels are often among the largest and most successful firms.

If an institution or business fails to protect you and you suffer harm, we can connect you with one of our law firm partners to proceed with your case. We believe in accountability and justice.

Our law firm partners work based on contingency. You will not need to pay upfront costs or fees. You will only pay if your attorney wins your case.

How Quickly Do I Need to Act to Protect My Rights After a Sexual Assault?

You should discuss your options with our team as soon as possible. Without talking to an attorney familiar with these cases in New York, it can be challenging to determine the statute of limitations that applies in your case.

New York law generally allows up to three years to file a lawsuit based on a personal injury under CPLR § 214. However, you could have more or less time based on the details of your case. Exceptions could include:

• Some survivors now have up to 20 years to file a civil lawsuit for sexual offenses under CPLR § 213‑c.
• Separate rules apply for survivors who were minors when the abuse occurred under the Child Victims Act.
• You could have less time if the liable party was a government entity.