New Jersey Child Sexual Abuse Lawyer
Child sexual abuse is one of the most damaging and underreported crimes. Survivors often carry the trauma into adulthood, struggling with emotional distress, relationships, and trust. In New Jersey, the law acknowledges the lasting effects of this abuse and provides legal avenues for survivors to seek justice. If you or your child was sexually abused, pursuing a civil lawsuit can be a crucial step toward healing.
Greenberg Gross LLP is committed to helping survivors of child sexual abuse take action against abusers and the institutions that enabled or ignored the abuse. Our attorneys provide confidential, compassionate support while building strong cases that reflect the depth of our clients’ suffering and the seriousness of the crimes committed against them.
Understanding Child Sexual Abuse and Legal Options
Child sexual abuse involves any form of sexual activity imposed on a minor. It often occurs in settings where adults hold authority—schools, churches, youth programs, or even within families. The abuse may involve direct contact or non-contact acts like exposure or exploitation.
New Jersey law offers survivors the right to file civil claims against individuals and entities responsible for the abuse. While criminal charges may also be brought by prosecutors, a civil lawsuit empowers survivors to control their case and pursue compensation for the harm caused.
Recent changes in the law have extended the statute of limitations.These Changes have potentially opened the door for thousands of survivors who were previously denied access to civil courts.
Types of Child Sexual Abuse Cases
Our legal team handles a wide range of child sexual abuse cases throughout the United States and New Jersey.
Clergy Abuse and Religious Organizations
Abuse within religious organizations, including the Catholic Church, has deeply scarred many communities. Survivors of clergy abuse often suffered in silence due to institutional cover-ups and pressure. Civil lawsuits have exposed these abuses, holding religious organizations accountable for decades of harm.
Abuse in Schools and Youth Programs
Teachers, coaches, and youth leaders have been implicated in many child sex abuse cases. Schools and other organizations can be held liable if they failed to take reasonable steps to prevent abuse, such as ignoring warning signs or not conducting proper background checks.
Boy Scouts and Other National Programs
The Boy Scouts and similar institutions have faced widespread allegations of childhood sexual abuse. In many cases, alleged abusers were allowed continued access to children even after reports surfaced. Survivors of these cases now have a legal pathway to seek justice and compensation.
The Legal Process for Filing a Child Sexual Abuse Lawsuit
Filing a child sexual abuse lawsuit in New Jersey begins with a confidential consultation. Survivors may file civil claims against the perpetrator and any organizations that failed to protect them. These lawsuits can result in financial compensation for medical costs, therapy, emotional pain, lost wages, and long-term care needs.
Civil suits are different from criminal cases. In a criminal case, the state brings charges and seeks punishment, such as prison. In a civil case, the survivor brings a claim and seeks damages for the harm suffered. Both can proceed simultaneously or separately.
Why Choose Greenberg Gross LLP
Our law firm has represented survivors of sexual abuse in complex, high-profile cases across the country. We are experienced in handling child sex abuse cases and are committed to helping victims pursue justice against powerful institutions. Whether the abuse occurred in a school, church, foster home, or national organization, our attorneys are prepared to hold responsible parties accountable.
We understand that survivors are not just filing lawsuits—they are reclaiming power. Our team provides trauma-informed representation, ensuring that survivors are treated with respect and compassion throughout the legal process.
New Jersey Law Protects Survivors
New Jersey has made significant legal advancements to protect survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Under new statutes of limitation, survivors have more time to file civil lawsuits and seek compensation. These changes reflect a deeper understanding of how trauma impacts memory, disclosure, and healing.
The statute of limitations now allows claims to be filed until age 55, or within seven years of discovering the abuse and its effects. This means survivors can come forward later in life and still have their cases heard in court.
Institutions Can Be Held Liable
In many child sex abuse cases, the abuse occurred because institutions ignored warnings, failed to act, or actively concealed allegations. Schools, religious organizations, and other youth-serving entities can be named in lawsuits if they allow predators to remain in positions of authority.
Property owners and administrators have a legal responsibility to protect children from foreseeable harm. If they failed in that duty, they can be held liable for the suffering their negligence caused.
Financial Compensation for Survivors
Civil claims seek compensation for the wide-ranging impact of abuse. Survivors may recover damages for:
- Medical and psychological treatment
- Emotional pain and suffering
- Lost wages or future earning capacity
- Out-of-pocket costs
- Punitive damages in certain circumstances
While no amount of money can undo the trauma, financial compensation can support healing and provide validation.
Our Commitment to Clients
At Greenberg Gross LLP, we pride ourselves on being extremely professional and focused solely on helping victims of abuse. As a trusted New Jersey Child Sexual Abuse Lawyer, we work closely with clients to ensure they understand every stage of the legal process. We offer confidential, no-pressure consultations and handle each case with the care it deserves.
From the first meeting to the final resolution, we stand beside our clients. Our legal action is not just about legal wins—it’s about justice, closure, and systemic change.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Justice delayed is not justice denied. If you were sexually abused as a child in New Jersey, you still have options. Greenberg Gross LLP offers confidential consultations to help you understand your rights and explore your legal path forward.
You are not alone. Let us help you seek justice, accountability, and the compensation you deserve.
FAQ
What is the statute of limitations for filing a child sexual abuse lawsuit in New Jersey?
Survivors have until age 55, or within seven years of discovering the abuse and its impact, to file a claim. Circumstances can vary and exceptions may apply, so contact a lawyer as soon as possible.
Can I file a lawsuit if the abuse happened decades ago?
Yes. New Jersey’s new statute permits lawsuits to be filed even if the abuse occurred many years ago, especially if the trauma was only recently acknowledged or discovered..
Who can be sued in a child sex abuse case?
Lawsuits may name the abuser and any institution—like a school or religious organization—that allowed the abuse to happen through negligence or concealment.
What kind of compensation can I receive?
Compensation may include therapy costs, emotional distress, lost income, and other damages. Punitive damages may also be awarded in cases of gross misconduct or cover-up.
What is the process to begin legal action?
Contact our firm for a confidential consultation. We will help you understand your legal rights, gather necessary evidence, and file your civil lawsuit to pursue justice and compensation.