Recent Senate rulings in New Jersey put sexual abuse survivors one step closer to reaching justice. On March 25, 2019, New Jersey lawmakers approved and passed S477, a measure to modify New Jersey’s statute of limitations on sexual abuse.
This bill gives give victims of sexual abuse more time to file lawsuits against their abusers.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed the bill into law May 13, 2019, opening up a new window of opportunity for sexual abuse survivors. Survivors’ window of opportunity is limited, so contact an experienced sexual abuse attorney today to learn if you may be entitled to a cash settlement for sexual abuse you endured as a child.
Efforts to pass S477 have been in motion for almost two decades. According to advocates of S477, the Catholic Church repeatedly opposed the bill and used their influence in Trenton to prevent efforts to move S477 forward.
The Catholic Church has faced hundreds of sexual abuse lawsuits over the last few decades and has historically done little to help victims within their walls. In fact, the old New Jersey statute of limitations helped the Church avoid lawsuits, since their strict regulations prevented many survivors from filing claims.
Despite the Church’s opposition, the state Assembly voted 71-0 in favor of S477 March 25, 2019.
Before, sexual abuse survivors could only pursue civil action against their abuser for two years or until they turned 20. Now, S477 allows adults who were sexually abused as a child to sue their abusers up until the age of 55 or seven years after they “discover” their injuries (whether that be emotional or psychological) are the result of sexual abuse.
The new bill also allows previously blocked sexual abuse survivors a two-year “lookback” window to bring cases back to court again.
S477 goes into effect December 1, 2019, and the two-year “lookback” window will end December 1, 2021.
Survivors of sexual abuse that happened in New Jersey have a second chance for justice, and AVA Law Group wants to partner with you to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Our team of experienced, sexual abuse lawyers have proven track records of success and aggressively advocate for your rights.
To see if you qualify to file a civil suit against your abuser(s), contact AVA Law Group today. We offer free, no obligation case evaluations and ensure you always talk with a live representative throughout the process. Call now: 1.866.428.2529
