Victims of Gender-Motivated Violence in New York City May Soon Be Able to Pursue Justice Through Civil Actions
MANHATTAN, NEW YORK (January 31, 2026) – In a landmark move for survivors of sexual abuse and gender-motivated violence in New York City, the NYC council has voted to override Mayor Eric Adams’ veto of the Gender-Motivated Violence Act.
This legislation marks a significant increase in the rights of those who have been victims of abuse in New York City. It is particularly important for those whose trauma has prevented them from stepping forward prior to an expiring statute of limitations.
The legislation allows survivors of abuse prior to January 9, 2022, to pursue a civil action. Survivors who qualify are able to pursue a legal claim within an 18-month window.
In other words, the legislation opens what is commonly referred to as a ‘lookback’ window. Accordingly, the survivors of sexual abuse and gender-motivated violence are able to pursue damages, even if they were previously unable due to the statute of limitations.
This vote by the NYC council has been strongly supported by the New York State Trial Lawyers Association (NYSTLA). They have long been advocates for a form at both the state and city levels.
Prior to this vote by the NYC Council, they were integral in advancing the Child Victims Act and the Adult Survivors Act. According to NYSTLA President Andrew Finkelstein, “Survivors deserve a justice system that recognizes the reality of trauma—not one that shuts the courthouse doors before they are ready to step forward.”
One of the major problems with traditional statutes of limitations for sexual abuse is that they fail to take into consideration how trauma affects victims. It is relatively common for victims to avoid coming forward because trauma seriously affects the brain and a person’s ability to seek help.
The legislation before the NYC Council allows victims to have a meaningful path forward. Any person who had previously filed qualifying claims from March 1, 2023 and March 1, 2025 will be able to amend or re-file those claims.
Getting Legal Help After Sexual Abuse in New York City
We at GLK Law were pleased to learn that the NYC council voted to override Mayor Eric Adams’ veto. This legislation will greatly improve the lives of many people across New York City who have been the victims of sexual abuse and gender-motivated violence. It finally gives voice to a great number of people who have been harmed at hospitals, jails, schools, and other institutions across the city. It also sends a clear statement that access to justice should not be determined by arbitrary timelines.
Have you or someone that you care about been the victim of sexual abuse or gender-motivated violence in New York City? You may have legal recourse. Our team of New York City sexual abuse attorneys is here for you. We are committed to helping victims get the support and justice that they are owed under the law. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.
