Breaking the Silence: Why Sexual Abuse Survivors Deserve Support and Legal Help

We at Mirman, Markhttps://mirmanlawyers.com/ovits & Landau understand that behind every civil lawsuit for rape or sexual abuse there is a deeply personal story of pain, courage, and the desire for justice. Survivors can carry the emotional weight of their experiences for years before they feel ready to come forward. Many never do, silenced by fear, shame, or the belief that it’s simply too late.

This post is for survivors—and for anyone who loves or supports someone who has survived sexual abuse. It’s not about statistics or legal jargon. It’s about the reality of what survivors go through, and why the Adult Survivors Act (ASA) and the Child Victims Act (CVA) exist: to offer hope, accountability, and healing through the legal system.

You Deserve Support Every Step of the Way

We take these cases seriously. We have represented women and children privately and confidentially since 1985 — that’s over 40 years taking care of the rights of victims.  We understand the trauma survivors have endured, and we handle every consultation with compassion.  

When you work with us, you get more than legal advice. You get people who listen without judgment, explain your rights clearly, and fight for your dignity and justice in court.

The Emotional Burden of Silence

Survivors can live for years without telling anyone what happened to them. Some were abused as children and didn’t understand or fully process what occurred. Others were assaulted as adults and are frozen by fear or shame. The reasons survivors stay silent are complex and deeply personal:

  • Fear of not being believed
  • Fear of retaliation by the abuser
  • Guilt or self-blame
  • Embarrassment or shame
  • Trauma that clouds or distorts memory
  • Distrust of institutions or law enforcement
  • Lack of support from family or community

Silence itself can lead to depression, anxiety, PTSD, and long-term mental health struggles. But survivors do not have to be powerless.

“Is It Too Late to Do Something About It?”

This is one of the most heartbreaking questions we hear. 

The answer in New York State is — the Child Victims Act and the Adult Survivors Act have opened the door.

How the Law Has Changed to Help Survivors

The Child Victims Act (CVA) – for those 18 and under when they were sexually abused or assaulted. If the abuse occurred after January 28, 2019, the survivor has until the age of 55 to file a claim. For those who were abused before January 28, 2019, they have until age 23 to sue.

The Adult Survivors Act (ASA) – for those over 18 who were sexually abused or assaulted. The Adult Survivors Act (ASA) allows most adult survivors a 20-year statute of limitations from the date of the abuse or assault.

Even if you’re unsure about your legal rights now, you should still talk to an attorney. Every situation is different, and you may still have options depending on the facts of your case and other applicable laws.

Why Filing a Civil Lawsuit Can Be Empowering

A civil lawsuit isn’t just about money—it’s about accountability. It’s about saying, “What happened to me was wrong, and someone should be held responsible.”

For many survivors, taking legal action is a key step in the healing process. It can:

  • Provide a sense of control and justice
  • Prevent institutions from hiding abuse
  • Hold individuals and organizations accountable
  • Encourage other survivors to speak out
  • Help prevent future abuse

The process may feel intimidating, but you don’t have to face it alone.

You Don’t Need to Have All the Answers to Take the First Step

You might be wondering:

  • “Do I have enough evidence?”
  • “What if I don’t remember everything clearly?”
  • “What if I just want to move on?”

These questions are completely normal. Reaching out for legal help doesn’t mean you’ve committed to filing a lawsuit. It simply means you’re exploring your rights and giving yourself the option to choose what’s best for your future.

Our consultations are free and confidential. We listen, guide, and support you—no pressure, no obligation.

About Mirman, Markovits & Landau, PC

We have been practicing together for over 45 years and have dedicated our careers to helping injured victims seek justice. We handle all types of personal injury cases—from car accidents and construction site injuries to medical malpractice and sexual abuse—and we’re proud to serve clients throughout New York City, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, The Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island.

We are known for our professionalism, compassion, and relentless commitment to our clients.

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You don’t have to carry this burden alone. If you or someone you know is a survivor of sexual abuse or rape, legal options may still be available. Whether the abuse happened years ago or more recently, your voice matters, and you deserve to be heard. Contact Mirman, Markovits & Landau, PC today for a free and confidential consultation.


Let us help you take the first step toward healing and justice.