The New York Child Victims Act (CVA) reshaped how survivors of childhood sexual abuse can seek civil compensation in New York State. Although the headline two-year revival window for previously time-barred claims closed in August 2021, the legal landscape it created continues to evolve in 2026.
What the CVA Did
The CVA extended the statute of limitations for civil child sexual abuse claims and opened a one-time revival window allowing survivors to bring claims that had previously been time-barred. Tens of thousands of cases were filed during that period, against schools, churches, hospitals, scouting organisations, and other institutions.
Where Cases Stand in 2026
Many CVA cases remain in active litigation, mediation, or institutional bankruptcy proceedings. Several Catholic dioceses in New York entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy in response to the volume of claims, and survivor compensation is being negotiated through court-supervised plans. Settlements in individual cases have continued to be reported through 2025 and into 2026.
What Routes Remain Open
- Claims within CPLR 208(b), which permits covered childhood sexual abuse claims on or before age 55. The abuse must have occurred before age 18; this is not an unlimited filing period.
- Claims under the Adult Survivors Act (ASA), whose own one-year revival window closed in November 2023 — although litigation arising from filings made during that window continues.
- Federal civil claims where applicable, and claims involving conduct that continued or recurred within current limitation periods.
- Participation in approved diocesan bankruptcy compensation plans, where eligibility criteria are met.
Even where the revival windows have closed, survivors should not assume they have no options. Time limits are technical, fact-sensitive, and subject to ongoing legal argument. A confidential review with a lawyer can help clarify what may still be possible.