If you were sexually abused as a child, you are already unfortunately familiar with the long-term impact that this type of violation can have on your life.  You might, however, think that it’s too late to take action to hold the responsible parties accountable.  In New Jersey, a recent law has provided a new, brief window to allow victims of childhood sexual abuse to pursue their right to financial compensation even decades later.

Victims of sexual abuse face significant challenges in repairing their emotional health.  At The Epstein Law Firm, our sexual abuse victims lawyers fight to get fair compensation for the unthinkable harm you have suffered.  Our compassionate, trusted lawyers have built our reputation for excellence over more than 120 years.  We have centered our practice around getting justice for our injured clients—whether their injuries are physical or psychological. 

We have the practical experience necessary to help real clients get the fair compensation they deserve.  Our lawyers and legal team are here to support your needs both in and out of the courtroom—and we will stand by your side every step of the way to make sure you get justice.

To learn more about our practice, meet with an experienced personal injury lawyer and learn how we can help, schedule a free case review today.  Your consultation with our lawyers is 100% free and confidential. 

New Jersey Expands Time for Victims of Sexual Abuse to Get Fair Compensation

Most lawsuits are subject to time limitations—meaning that after a certain amount of time has passed, you are no longer able to sue for financial compensation.  Recognizing the difficulty that victims of childhood sexual abuse have in speaking out, New Jersey has expanded the relevant timelines to give you more time to protect your rights.  Under the law, if you were a victim of sexual abuse while under age 18, you can file a lawsuit:

  • Before you reach age 55, or
  • Even after you have reached age 55, during a two-year window beginning December 1, 2019 and expiring December 1, 2021

At The Epstein Law Firm, our lawyers work to get compensation for clients who were victims of sexual abuse under circumstances involving:

  • Clergy members
  • Boy scouts
  • Educational institutions
  • School camps
  • Daycare centers

As a child, you are frequently placed into situations where adults occupy a position of trust and power.  Teachers, team leaders, and even your own priest often have the power to take advantage of your youth and that trust.  If you were victimized by an adult who you trusted, that person—and the organization responsible for putting them into power—should be held responsible.

Our lawyers know that it can be difficult to come forward and speak up against sexual abuse.  Even after decades have passed, you may still be battling the psychological scars of abuse.  We are here to handle all of the details of your case with compassion, empathy, and a passion for holding people and organizations accountable for their actions. To learn more about your rights and options, contact The Epstein Law Firm today.

Skilled and Compassionate Lawyers Work to Get Fair Compensation for Sexual Abuse Victims

The financial consequences of childhood sexual abuse can be extensive.  You may have paid the price to undergo ongoing psychological counseling.  You might have had trouble holding a job or experienced damage to your personal relationships over your lifetime.  In today’s world, more people are speaking out against sexual abuse and harassment.  You could have the right to receive compensation for:

  • Emotional counseling, both past and future
  • Pain and suffering
  • Lost earning capacity
  • Diminished quality of life
  • And more

Victims who were abused by clergy members and priests in the Catholic Church also have access to a special Victim Compensation Fund set up specifically for this purpose.  At The Epstein Law Firm, our sexual abuse victims lawyers use our experience to get the maximum compensation available in your case.  To learn more about pursuing your right to fair compensation, contact us for a free and confidential consultation today.

Schedule a Confidential Consultation with One of Our Experienced Injury Lawyers Today

You may be facing a long road to recovery if you have been the victim of sexual abuse.  Financial compensation cannot undo the deep impact of sexual abuse, but it can serve to hold the responsible parties accountable—and help you get any treatment that you need to get your life back on track.

Before taking any action, speak with our experienced lawyers to protect your right to fair compensation.  Call today for a free and confidential consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sexual Abuse Lawsuits in New Jersey

What about adult victims of sexual abuse? Do they have the right to pursue a lawsuit for compensation?

Yes. Adult victims of sexual abuse can also sue responsible parties to get fair compensation. In reference to compensating a victim in the form of monetary damages, the victim is suing to make themselves “whole” and to try and redress the wrong that has been done to them.

I thought that certain organizations, like the church and other nonprofits, were immune to most civil lawsuits involving sexual abuse victims. Is this true?

The New Jersey law permits lawsuits even against certain types of organizations that historically have been immune from civil actions for compensation. These organizations can be held retroactively accountable for willful, wanton, or grossly negligent acts resulting in sexual abuse. This includes situations where churches, the boy scouts, schools, and other organizations failed to take steps to stop the abuse and for negligent supervision and training.

I would assume that my abuser is dead. Can anyone else be held accountable?

Yes. The organization that hired and supervised your abuser can be held retroactively accountable for the actions of the employee. This means that the church can be made to pay for sexual abuse perpetrated by the clergy and a school can be made to pay for sexual abuse perpetrated by teachers. Generally, the organization itself has a duty to take steps to prevent and stop sexual abuse. Years later, when it has become apparent that many organizations have failed in this duty, they can still be held financially responsible.