New Jersey has joined New York and several other states in expanding the civil statute of limitations for sexual abuse cases. On Monday, May 13, 2019, Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation easing restrictions on when childhood sexual abuse victims can seek damages in court.
The impact this law will have cannot be overstated as it will finally allow sexual abuse victims in the state more time to come forward and hold their perpetrators accountable for the crimes they have committed.
The Facts the Signed Legislation
The New Jersey Sexual Assault Victim’s Bill of Rights allows child sexual abuse victims to sue up until they turn 55 or within seven years of their first realization that the abuse caused them harm. The current statute of limitations is age 20 or two years after first realizing the abuse caused harm. The new bill also gives a two-year window to victims who were previously barred by the statute of limitation.
The bill further allows victims of child sexual abuse to file actions against institutions that protect the perpetrators due to the negligent hiring, supervision or retention of an employee, agent or servant of a nonprofit corporation, society or association organized exclusively for religious, charitable, education or hospital purposes.
Governor Murphy made it clear that any exposure to financial liability is outweighed by concern over victims. As he clearly stated,
“I cannot deny victims the ability to seek redress in court for sexual abuse that often leaves trauma lasting a lifetime.”
NYC Child Sex Abuse Attorney
If you or a loved one has been the victim of child sexual abuse, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Although no amount of money will undo the harm caused, it can bring a sense of justice and closure for victims. For more information or to consult with an experienced NYC child sex abuse attorney, please call Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. at 1-646-798-1535.
