Seeking help and justice after experiencing sexual abuse requires immense courage, no matter where you find yourself in life. It’s essential to understand that while you can pursue criminal charges against your abuser at any time, there are statute of limitations for seeking compensation for the pain and suffering you’ve endured as a result of sexual abuse. Your journey is valid, and you deserve support every step of the way.

At Andreozzi + Foote, our trauma-informed attorneys are dedicated to providing compassionate, confidential support throughout the process. With extensive experience advocating for survivors of sexual abuse, we are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where your voice is heard and your rights are vigorously protected. 

Contact us today for a free, comprehensive consultation and take the first step toward justice.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Sexual Abuse in New Jersey?

A statute of limitations sets the deadline to initiate criminal or civil actions. These deadlines are designed to balance the rights of both plaintiffs and defendants. They allow plaintiffs to bring their claims against alleged offenders while preventing defendants from facing prosecution or legal action when evidence becomes lost or unreliable over time. 

In New Jersey, the time limits for filing claims can vary depending on the victim’s age at the time of the offense.

Criminal vs Civil Statute of Limitations in New Jersey

Criminal charges are filed by the government. The defendant may face jail time and criminal penalties for their actions. 

In New Jersey, there is no time limit for filing criminal charges over sexual assault. This means that survivors can come forward at any time, no matter how much time has passed. However, victims ultimately have little control over the process as prosecutors decide whether to file charges. 

Meanwhile, victims have the right to file a lawsuit against their abusers and any organization or institution that failed to prevent the abuse. Through a civil sexual abuse lawsuit, survivors can recover damages for medical bills, therapy costs, pain and suffering, emotional trauma, lost earning capacity, loss of enjoyment of life, and more.

Survivors typically initiate the lawsuit themselves, but if the survivor is a minor, a parent or legal guardian can file a lawsuit on the child’s behalf.

In 2019, New Jersey extended its statute of limitations for civil lawsuits concerning sexual abuse, recognizing the profound impact such trauma can have on both child and adult survivors:

• Child Sex Abuse Survivors: Survivors who were under 18 at the time of their abuse are now able to file lawsuits until they reach their 55th birthday or within seven years of realizing the abuse has caused them harm. 
• Adult Sex Abuse Survivors: Those who were 18 years or older at the time of their abuse have seven years from the date of the offense or from when they discovered the abuse’s impact on their lives.

Extensions and Exceptions to the Filing Deadline for Sexual Abuse Claims in New Jersey

The 2019 reform law gave survivors additional time to file their lawsuits if they discover their abuse after the age-based time limit has expired. Importantly, the law recognizes the so-called discovery rule, meaning that abuse survivors have seven years from when they discover the harm to file suit, regardless of how long ago the incident occurred or their age when it happened. For example, child sex abuse survivors have until their 55th birthday to initiate a civil lawsuit. However, if they are older when they realize that the childhood abuse has caused them harm, they then have an additional seven years from that discovery to pursue legal action.

Missing the statute of limitations deadlines can impact your ability to file a lawsuit against the person who harmed you. It is important to know that the longer one waits, the more difficult it may become to gather the evidence needed for a strong case. If you are a survivor considering legal action for the abuse you have endured, contact a sexual abuse attorney today. Acting sooner rather than later can help ensure you don’t miss the opportunity to file your case and seek the justice you deserve. You are not alone, and there is support available for you.

How a Sexual Abuse Attorney Can Help You Navigate Time Limits

We understand that navigating the legal system can be overwhelming, especially when you’re facing difficult circumstances. Our New Jersey sexual abuse lawyers offer compassionate support as we help you determine whether you’re still eligible to file a lawsuit. If you decide to move forward, we’ll stand by your side every step of the way. 

We’ll assist you in gathering the necessary evidence, ensure that all your filings are completed accurately and promptly, and handle negotiations and settlements on your behalf, allowing you to focus on what matters most.

As one of the nation’s leading law firms representing survivors of sexual abuse, we take pride in delicately balancing the need to advance a case while supporting a survivor’s recovery. We handle every case with compassion, professionalism, and a strong commitment to justice.

Contact an Experienced New Jersey Sexual Abuse Attorney

If you are a survivor of sexual abuse, it’s important to know that seeking justice is possible. While financial compensation cannot undo the harm done, it can hold the offender and anyone who facilitated the abuse accountable, while also providing the necessary resources for your healing.

We have successfully represented some of the highest-profile child sexual abuse cases of our time. Our attorneys have a proven track record of handling complex, high-stakes cases and have an unwavering commitment to client service.

At Andreozzi + Foote, we are dedicated advocates for survivors of sexual abuse. We strive to create a safe and supportive environment for our clients, and are committed to uncovering the truth, exposing all negligent parties, and ensuring that survivors receive the justice they deserve. We stand with survivors and their families.If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse in New Jersey, contact Andreozzi + Foote for a free and confidential consultation. Call 866-311-8640 or fill out our online contact form today.