New York Adult Sexual Assault Lawyer
For many adult survivors, the journey toward justice after sexual abuse can be long, painful, and uncertain. But in New York, new legal protections offer a powerful path forward. At Greenberg Gross LLP, we stand firmly with survivors of sexual assault, providing compassionate legal support and strategic advocacy tailored to each case. Whether the abuse occurred recently or decades ago, you have the right to be heard—and the right to take legal action.
Legal Options for Adult Survivors of Sexual Abuse in New York
Sexual abuse is a deeply personal and devastating form of harm. Survivors may carry the trauma of sexual assault for years, often struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, or depression. In many cases, the abuse happened long ago, but the emotional wounds remain fresh.
Thanks to the Adult Survivors Act, individuals in New York who were sexually abused as adults now have a renewed chance to hold their abusers accountable. This law created a special one-year window for survivors to file civil lawsuits regardless of when the abuse occurred—an important development for those previously barred by time restrictions. Although the official look-back window has closed, legal opportunities still exist for many. Survivors are encouraged to consult a sexual abuse lawyer to understand their current rights under New York law.
The statute of limitations for sexual abuse claims can vary depending on the nature of the abuse and when it occurred. It’s important to note that New York law treats adult sexual abuse differently from childhood abuse, so working with an experienced attorney is critical.
Pursuing a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit in New York
Filing a sexual abuse lawsuit is a courageous and important step. Survivors of adult sexual abuse have the right to pursue civil compensation for the harm they endured. These claims often involve more than just the sexual act itself—they reflect the enduring impact on the survivor’s mental health, daily life, and sense of safety.
A New York sexual abuse lawyer can help determine whether your case qualifies under the existing legal standards. Some cases may involve criminal charges, especially if the sexual contact was non-consensual or involved coercion, threats, or force. Others may proceed solely through civil litigation, where survivors can seek compensation for therapy costs, lost wages, and emotional distress.
No matter the route, survivors deserve to be treated with dignity, listened to without judgment, and empowered to reclaim their stories.
How Greenberg Gross LLP Supports Survivors of Sexual Abuse
At Greenberg Gross LLP, we provide more than just legal services—we offer support, strength, and strategic guidance. Our team understands that for many sexual abuse survivors, the legal process can feel daunting. That’s why we prioritize a client-centered approach that respects the survivor’s pace, voice, and needs.
We begin each case by listening. Survivors often share that their experiences were minimized or ignored for years. We make it our mission to ensure that every detail of your sexual abuse claim is documented with care and used to build a strong, fact-based argument.
Our firm also recognizes that adult survivors may face different challenges than child sexual abuse survivors. For example, adult survivors often encounter skepticism, fear of retaliation in professional settings, or confusion about whether their experience meets the legal definition of sexual assault. We provide clarity, not only about your legal rights but also about the legal process ahead.
The Impact of New York’s Legal Framework on Sexual Abuse Cases
Recent legal reforms in New York have significantly expanded the rights of survivors of sexual abuse. Alongside the Adult Survivors Act, the Child Victims Act also created broader pathways for individuals who suffered childhood sexual abuse to file civil lawsuits.
Both laws represent a growing recognition that the effects of sexual abuse do not disappear with time. Survivors may suppress memories or delay disclosure due to shame, fear, or trauma. But when they are ready, the law must be ready to support them.
The York Adult Survivors Act complements the existing York Child Victims Act, acknowledging that sexual abuse committed against adults warrants just as much attention and redress. Survivors of all ages can now engage with the legal system in pursuit of justice—many for the first time.
Seeking Justice Through Civil Lawsuits
Civil litigation offers an essential path for sexual abuse victims who may not see justice through the criminal courts. While criminal charges can punish offenders, civil claims focus on the survivor’s right to seek compensation for the long-lasting effects of the abuse.
A civil case allows survivors to expose the actions of sexual predators, bring awareness to institutional failures, and receive financial compensation for medical treatment, mental health care, and lost opportunities. It’s not only about money—it’s about accountability, visibility, and reclaiming one’s power.
Greenberg Gross LLP is committed to handling these matters with the utmost sensitivity. Survivors working with our legal team gain a partner who understands the emotional toll of sexual abuse litigation and who works tirelessly to ease the burden wherever possible.
Understanding What Constitutes Adult Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse encompasses a range of unwanted, non-consensual, or coercive behaviors, including:
- Forced or manipulated sexual contact
- Abuse by authority figures using power or trust to initiate a sexual act
- Sexual coercion during work, school, or housing interactions
- Exploitation of vulnerable individuals based on status, dependency, or sexual orientation
It’s important to understand that even if a survivor did not physically resist or was in a relationship with the perpetrator, the behavior may still meet the threshold of adult sexual abuse under New York law.
Additionally, behaviors involving child pornography, sexual harassment, or sexual gratification through manipulation or control may qualify for civil action if they occurred when the survivor was legally an adult.
Why Survivors Are Speaking Out Now
For many adult survivors, time was once a barrier to justice. But today, a powerful shift is underway. Empowered by legislation, media visibility, and the courage of others, survivors are taking the step to file civil lawsuits, hold sexual abusers accountable, and make their voices heard.
This movement is not about revenge—it’s about healing. Legal action can serve as a form of acknowledgment that the abuse was real, that it mattered, and that the survivor’s suffering deserves redress.
Compassionate Legal Help from Greenberg Gross LLP
Choosing to pursue a legal case is never easy. But working with a compassionate sexual assault lawyer can make the process more manageable. At Greenberg Gross LLP, we approach every case with empathy, discretion, and determination.
Whether you were sexually assaulted by a colleague, clergy member, family acquaintance, or employer, we provide clear, steady legal guidance. If your sexual abuse incident happened in the workplace, in housing, or during medical care, we can help determine whether legal action is possible under existing New York statutes.
We also collaborate with third-party organizations that offer mental health support and trauma-informed care, recognizing that the path to justice often involves emotional healing as well.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Seeking justice is not just about accountability—it’s about fostering safety and change. A dedicated New York Adult Sexual Assault Lawyer at Greenberg Gross LLP is ready to stand with you, offering compassionate legal support every step of the way. If you’re considering filing a sexual abuse lawsuit under the Adult Survivors Act or believe your rights have been violated, we are here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Adult Survivors Act in New York?
The Adult Survivors Act temporarily lifted the statute of limitations for adult sexual abuse cases, allowing survivors to file civil lawsuits regardless of when the abuse occurred. Though the one-year window has closed, some claims may still be eligible under other provisions of New York law.
Can I file a lawsuit if the abuse happened decades ago?
Yes. Survivors whose abuse happened decades ago may still have legal options, depending on the specific circumstances of the abuse and current laws.
What’s the difference between civil and criminal sexual abuse cases?
Civil lawsuits aim to provide compensation to survivors, while criminal charges are filed by the state to punish offenders. You do not need to press criminal charges to pursue civil action.
What support is available during the legal process?
Greenberg Gross LLP works with survivors to ensure trauma-informed, respectful legal representation. We also connect clients to mental health resources and counseling.
Is it too late to act?
Not necessarily. Laws change, and new legal tools may be available. If you’ve experienced sexual abuse, consult with a qualified sexual abuse lawyer to understand your options.