18-Month Lookback Window Now Open

Justice for Survivors of Sexual Abuse in NYC

If you experienced sexual abuse or violence in New York City, the Gender-Motivated Violence Act may allow you to hold your abuser — and the institutions that protected them — fully accountable. Even if it happened years ago.

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The Law

What Qualifies Under the GMVA?

Under New York City's Gender-Motivated Violence Act, an act must involve violence, physical force, or threat of force, and be committed because of the victim's gender. Harassment alone usually does not qualify unless tied to violent acts.

1

Sexual Assault & Rape

Forced sexual acts of any kind.

2

Sexual Abuse

Unwanted sexual contact or touching.

3

Sexual Battery

Coerced or forced sexual acts.

4

Sex Trafficking

Coercion into commercial sexual activity.

5

Coerced Sexual Acts

Acts performed under threat or pressure.

6

Workplace Violence

Specific workplace sexual violence scenarios.

Survivor support
Why Act Now

New Windows for Justice Are Open

Recent legal updates have created a critical opportunity for survivors to seek accountability — even for abuse that happened decades ago.

JANUARY 2026 UPDATE

18-Month Lookback Window

A new legislative update has temporarily reopened the door for survivors to file or revive claims that were previously time-barred. This window will not last forever — acting now protects your right to seek justice.

INSTITUTIONAL ACCOUNTABILITY

Hold Institutions Liable

You can now sue not just the individual abuser, but also the schools, hospitals, religious organizations, and corporations that enabled, ignored, or concealed the abuse.

Do You Qualify?

Eligibility Criteria

Your case must meet specific jurisdictional and evidentiary standards. Here's what we look for:

Step 01

Location: 5 Boroughs

  • Manhattan
  • Brooklyn
  • Queens
  • The Bronx
  • Staten Island
  • Long Island, Westchester, Yonkers, or Upstate NY do not qualify
Step 02

Qualifying Settings

  • Schools: Teachers, coaches, school counselors
  • Hospitals: Doctors tied to a hospital
  • Religious Institutions: Large organizations only
  • Employers: Large corporations only
  • Foster Care: Little Flower placements
  • Prisons & Jails: Men and women (Rikers women only)
  • Entertainment Businesses & treatment centers
Step 03

Evidence & Notice

  • School attendance records
  • Yearbook photos
  • Documentation of placement
  • Telling someone (parent, friend, therapist, school official) is highly suggested
  • A formal report at the time is not strictly required
Watch & Learn

Understanding Your Rights

A short overview of the Gender-Motivated Violence Act and what it means for survivors.

By The Numbers

NYC Abuse Statistics

Survivors are not alone. The need for justice and accountability has never been greater.

241K+
Orders of protection issued in NY State in 2024 — a 14% increase from 2022
94
Reported anti-LGBTQ hate crime offenses in NYC in 2024
115
Average days survivors stay in NYC residential support facilities
Important to Know

Exclusions & Updates

The following types of cases are currently disqualified under this specific criteria:

Cases We Cannot Currently Accept

  • Inmate-on-inmate violence cases
  • Strip search cases
  • Dr. Hadden's cases
  • State and federal cases
  • Juvenile detention violent crimes, murder, or rape
  • Private home foster placements (NYC only)
  • Private practice doctors (without prior approval)
  • Clients requesting loan advances on their claim

Still Have Questions?

Don't let time run out on your right to seek justice. Connect with our team today for a free, confidential case review — we'll walk you through your options under the Gender-Motivated Violence Act and help you take the first step toward accountability and healing.

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