Many sexual assault and abuse survivors believe that if criminal charges aren’t filed, or don’t lead to a conviction, there are no other options. That’s not true. In New Jersey, you have the right to pursue justice through the civil court system, regardless of the outcome or occurrence of a criminal case. 

A civil lawsuit allows you to hold your abuser and any institution or third party that enabled the abuse financially accountable for the harm you’ve endured. Civil claims focus on compensating you for your suffering, including emotional trauma, medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. They also have a lower burden of proof than criminal convictions. 

We offer free consultations that help you determine who can be held liable and how you can proceed with your civil sexual assault case.

• Institutional Abuse: including cases involving schools, religious organizations, foster care systems, and youth programs that failed to protect children or covered up known misconduct. 
• Workplace Sexual Assault: including harassment, coercion, and assault by supervisors, coworkers, or clients, especially in environments where power dynamics are exploited. 
• Medical and Therapeutic Abuse: where doctors, nurses, therapists, or caregivers violate ethical boundaries during treatment or care. 
• Nursing Home and Elder Abuse: including sexual abuse of seniors in long-term care facilities, often by staff members or other residents. 
• Abuse by Trusted Individuals: such as family members, neighbors, family friends, or community leaders who use trust to manipulate and harm. 

Each case is unique, and we’re here to listen. Our role is to help you understand your rights, protect your privacy, and seek justice from all responsible parties. 

In civil sexual abuse lawsuits, survivors can pursue claims against: 

• Their abuser 
• Employers or supervisors who failed to act on complaints 
• Schools, daycares, or universities that ignored warning signs 
• Religious institutions that covered up known abuse 
• Property owners or businesses that failed to provide adequate security (such as hotels and motels) 
• Public transportation systems 
• Healthcare professionals who violated ethical boundaries 
• Youth organizations, camps, or foster systems that failed to protect minors 

Our attorneys have the resources and experience to investigate your case thoroughly and pursue justice through all available legal avenues. 

While no amount of money can undo the pain caused by sexual violence, civil lawsuits can help survivors secure: 

• Coverage for therapy and medical expenses 
• Lost income or diminished earning capacity 
• Compensation for emotional distress and trauma 
• Pain and suffering 
• Punitive damages in cases of extreme negligence or misconduct 

We work with physicians and medical specialists, trauma-informed professionals, and other expert witnesses to build strong cases that reflect the full impact of your experience.

On May 13, 2019, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed S477/A3648, which permanently expanded New Jersey’s civil statute of limitations for sexual assault. This allows survivors of sexual violence in New Jersey to access the civil justice system.  

All victims of sexual assault now have seven years to pursue civil action, and adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse now have until age 55 or seven years from discovery.

Children may not always have the language or understanding to describe what has happened to them. If you are a caregiver, teacher, or family member, be on alert for behavioral and physical signs of abuse. 

Common indicators may include: 

• Sudden changes in behavior or mood (anger, fear, withdrawal) 
• Nightmares, bedwetting, or regression to earlier behaviors 
• Fear of certain people or places 
• Knowledge of sexual behavior that is not age-appropriate 
• Unexplained physical injuries, particularly around the genital area 
• Reluctance to change clothes, bathe, or be left alone with certain individuals 

Family members who suspect abuse should take all concerns seriously. Our firm works with medical experts and investigators to pursue justice for survivors of all ages; including children, adults, and elders. Our legal team can help you navigate the next steps with care and urgency, whether the abuse occurred in a home, school, camp, or other setting. 

We know that reaching out can be incredibly difficult. At Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, we are ready to listen without judgment or pressure, and always with respect. 

If you’re ready to speak with a New Jersey sexual abuse lawyer, we’re here to help you take the next step toward healing and justice. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. We’re here when you’re ready.