Did Connecticut Extend the Deadline to File a Sex Abuse Lawsuit?
In recent years, Connecticut has significantly expanded survivors’ legal rights through legislation. In 2020, the state eliminated or extended the criminal statute of limitations for many sexual assault crimes. Similarly, the state extended the civil statute of limitations for survivors who were under 21 at the time of the assault.
In many civil lawsuits involving childhood sexual abuse, survivors now have up to 30 years from their 18th birthday to file a claim, depending on the specific facts of the case. This extended timeline gives survivors more time to understand and process what happened before they have to consider legal action.
These changes mean that people who once believed their claim was barred because it was filed after the filing deadline now have an opportunity to seek accountability. Our team can carefully review your situation to determine whether the law allows a path forward and whether our firm is the right fit to handle your case.
How Do Connecticut’s Filing Deadlines Work?
Sexual assault cases can involve both criminal and civil law, and each follows different rules.
- Criminal cases are brought by the state and may result in jail or prison time.
- Civil lawsuits are filed by survivors and seek financial compensation for the harm caused.
In Connecticut, criminal filing deadlines depend on the specific charge, the survivor’s age, and whether DNA evidence exists. More serious offenses, including certain Class A felonies and crimes involving minors, may not be subject to any criminal statute of limitations under Connecticut law.
Civil deadlines depend primarily on the survivor’s age at the time of the abuse and, in some situations, whether there was a related criminal conviction. Changes enacted through PA 19-16 expanded these timelines and apply to certain cases that were not already time-barred when the law took effect.
What Factors Can Impact My Deadline to File?
Several factors can impact how long you have to bring a claim forward, including:
- Whether the abuse involved a minor
- The type of offense involved
- Whether there is conclusive DNA evidence
- Whether the offense qualifies as a Class A felony
Because these rules are technical and fact-specific, speaking with an experienced Connecticut sexual assault attorney can help clarify how they apply to your circumstances.
When Is the Best Time to File a Sexual Assault Lawsuit?
Even with extended deadlines, it’s best to speak with an attorney as soon as you feel ready. Over time, evidence can be lost, records disappear, and memories fade. At Kennedy Johnson, we take a careful, thorough approach to protecting evidence and evaluating each case, always with discretion and respect for what our clients have experienced.
If you’re ready to talk or want clarity about your rights, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Protect your rights and get thoughtful guidance by calling (203) 865-8430 or contacting us online.