NYC Institutional Sexual Abuse Lawyers
Were you sexually abused by a professor, coach, or someone in a position of authority at a New York City institution?
The use of this form does not establish an attorney-client relationship.
The Gender Motivated Violence Protection Law covers a wide range of NYC institutions beyond jails, schools, and hospitals. If you were sexually abused by someone acting in their institutional role — a professor, foster parent, coach, or other authority figure — this law may provide a path to justice. We are actively investigating potential claims at New York universities, including Columbia, NYU, Fordham, NYIT, Berkeley College, and St. John's University, as well as foster care placements, athletic programs, and other organizations.
Confidential
All consultations are completely confidential
Proven Results
$4B+ recovered for abuse survivors
Experienced Team
3,500+ survivors represented
40+ Years
Decades of experience fighting for justice
Who May Have a Claim
- You were enrolled, placed, or participated at an institution in New York City
- You experienced sexual abuse by a professor, coach, foster parent, staff member, or other authority figure
- The abuser was acting in their institutional role when the abuse occurred
- You can identify the abuser by name or detailed description
- You know the approximate time period when the abuse occurred
Your Legal Options & Why Now
We represent survivors of institutional sexual abuse in New York City. Speaking with us is free, confidential, and carries no obligation; if you decide to move forward, you pay nothing unless we win.
The Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Law lets survivors bring civil claims against the institutions connected to the abuse, alongside the individuals responsible. Whether any claim succeeds is decided in court.
An 18-month lookback window opened January 29, 2026 under NYC Council Int. 1297-A (Local Law 2026/050). A confidential review is the fastest way to learn how the deadline applies to you.
- 1You tell us as much or as little as you want.A confidential conversation with our team — by phone or online. You stay in control of the pace.
- 2We review whether you have a claim.At no cost, against the facts and the law — and we tell you honestly either way.
- 3You decide what happens next.If you choose to move forward, you pay nothing unless we win for you.
Time Limits
Time limits can apply to these claims. The sooner you reach out, the more we may be able to do — and .
Abuse by someone in authority — at any institution
What matters is the abuser's institutional role — at CUNY and private universities, community colleges and graduate schools, foster and group homes, residential programs, youth sports leagues, dance and martial-arts studios, camps, and athletic clubs. We investigate claims of sexual abuse by:
Not sure, or don't see the role? Take the quiz — it sorts out whether you may qualify.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to report the abuse to police to file a civil claim?+
No. A civil lawsuit is separate from any criminal proceedings. You do not need to have made a police report, and the outcome of any criminal case does not determine your civil claim. Many survivors pursue civil claims without ever involving law enforcement.
Do I need to know the abuser's full name?+
While knowing the abuser's full name is helpful, it's not always required. If you can provide a detailed physical description, nickname, or other identifying information, our investigators may be able to identify the perpetrator. However, if the abuser cannot ultimately be identified through investigation, it may affect the viability of your claim.
Is my consultation confidential?+
Absolutely. All communications with our firm are protected by attorney-client privilege. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and take extensive precautions to protect your privacy. Many cases can also be filed using pseudonyms to further protect your identity.
How much does it cost to file a claim?+
There is no upfront cost to file a claim with our firm. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our fee is a percentage of any settlement or verdict we obtain on your behalf.
Speak with us, confidentially
If you were sexually abused at a NYC institution, we're here to help — at no cost, and no obligation.
Do You Qualify? Find Out in 60 Seconds.
Survived sexual abuse or gender-motivated violence at a New York City institution? Answer a few quick questions below to find out if you may be eligible — or call us now. Every conversation is confidential and compassionate.
The use of this form does not establish an attorney-client relationship.
Question 1 of 3