The long-term effects of such abuse can be devastating, manifesting in various physical, emotional, and psychological challenges. In response to the growing awareness of childhood sexual abuse and its consequences, many states have enacted "look-back statutes" that allow survivors to file claims against their abusers and the institutions that may have enabled the abuse, even if the statute of limitations has expired.

Childhood Sexual Abuse Lawyers at Oshan & Associates, represented over hundreds of sexual abuse survivors in the past two decades and address these issues with compassion and understanding, while providing our clients justice. As a personal injury law firm we have extensive experience in handling childhood sexual abuse claims throughout the United States.

CHILDHOOD SEXUAL ABUSE ATTORNEY EVAN OSHAN HAS BEEN FIGHTING FOR SURVIVORS OVER 2 DECADES! 

Evan M. Oshan and his team are not afraid to go against powerful corporations or the Churches. He has represented over hundreds of individuals against Group homes, Foster Care Facilities, Churches, Juveniles Jails, Schools, YMCA's, Boys and Girls Club, Boy Scouts of America and more...

With his ‘never say defeat’ spirit and his push to represent the best of his Clients' interests Evan M. Oshan has been called a warrior for justice. Evan Oshan has experience working and securing high settlements involving Childhood Sexual Abuse claims internationally. 

Evan M. Oshan was quoted, featured and interviewed in hundreds of news publications worldwide including but not limited to: New York Post, TMZ, ABC, CBS, NBC, Washington Post, Fox, Inside Edition, The Seattle Times, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Times, CNBC, New York Post, CNN, New York Daily News, Metro UK, People, PBS and more.

Oshan & Associates, P.C. has consistently and effectively secured substantial international, national, and local media contracts, appearing in a plethora of media coverage pieces for high profile cases. Obtaining multiple gag order confidential settlements with hard line negotiation achieving success in settlements and favorable verdicts. No case is too small, every person matters and every case is unique and treated with the outmost respect. 

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"One of the best lawyers around from the west coast to the East Coast Evan makes it happen I've been fighting the case for about 3 years Evan never made a mountain out of a mustard seed...... if you couldn't see it you made it happen thanks for working with me."

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Excellent Attorney Who Will Get Your Case Settled Over & Above Your Expectations.

"Mr. Evan Oshan is an excellent Attorney who is barred in both WA & New York. My personal injury case took many years to settle but in the end it was well worth the wait.​ He definitely knows how to think out of the box in utilizing all available services that will work to his client's advantage. He won't just compromise & settle for less in order to save time & just prematurely close out the case. He is an expert attorney when it comes to knowing how to negotiate with the Insurance Companies/Adjusters. He is not a lazy attorney & hence will go the extra mile for his clients. Mr. Oshan's legal services far exceeded my initial expectations--& so I would definitely employ his legal services again. Thanks so much, Evan."

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"I had been in a lawsuit with an international entity. Non disclosure prevents me from saying their name. Evan was my third attorney. The other two were puppets for the defense. Evan stood up for me when no one else would and got me back what was taken. I had a house paid in full a car. These people came along and tried to make me something I am not to hide the truth and flip the script on the lawsuit. I am no longer In The United States. Evan got back some of what was taken so I can move on and start a new life abroad. Those other reviews about his answering service. Look he does cases in New York, California, Washington, Arizona. He is a busy man and the people in the office are just doing their job." 

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Childhood Sexual Abuse Claims

Prevalence and Statistics Childhood sexual abuse is alarmingly prevalent in the United States. According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC):

• 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys experience sexual abuse before the age of 18. 
• Approximately 63,000 children are sexually abused each year in the U.S., based on data from the Department of Health and Human Services.
• The vast majority of child sexual abuse cases (approximately 90%) are perpetrated by someone the child knows, such as a family member, family friend, or authority figure. 

The Impact of Childhood Sexual Abuse

The effects of childhood sexual abuse can be profound and long-lasting. Survivors may experience a range of physical and psychological consequences, including:

Impact of Childhood Sexual Abuse: Mental Health

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Substance abuse
• Anxiety
• Depression
  
• Addiction
• Embarrassment
• Fear
• Flashbacks
• Nightmares
• Sleep issues
• Sleep disturbances
• Exaggerated startle response
• Boundary issues
• Self-destructive behaviors
• Guilt
• Grief
• Homophobia
• Hostility
• Humiliation
• Anger
• Isolation
• Hollowness
• Regret
• Shame
• Sexual addiction
• Sexual problems
• Sexual identity confusion
• Low self-esteem or self-image
• Bitterness
• Suicidal ideation
• Suicide attempts
  
• Self-Esteem issues

Impact of Childhood Sexual Abuse: Physical Health

Look-Back Statutes: 

Definition and Purpose

Look-back statutes are laws that allow survivors of childhood sexual abuse to file civil claims against their abusers and the institutions that may have facilitated the abuse, regardless of when the abuse occurred. These statutes are particularly important because they provide a window of opportunity for survivors to seek justice and accountability, even if the traditional statute of limitations has expired.

How Look-Back Statutes Work

Typically, look-back statutes function in one of two ways:

• Many look-back statutes establish a specific "window" during which survivors can file claims, often ranging from one to three years. During this period, survivors can initiate legal action against their abusers and associated institutions without being barred by the statute of limitations.
• Some look-back statutes allow survivors to revive claims that have already expired under the traditional statute of limitations. This revival can enable survivors to hold accountable those responsible for their abuse.

States with Look-Back Statutes

As awareness of childhood sexual abuse and its impacts has grown, several states have enacted look-back statutes. While the specifics vary by state, notable examples include:

• New York: In 2019, New York passed the Child Victims Act, creating a one-year look-back window for survivors to file claims regardless of when the abuse occurred. This law also extended the statute of limitations for future claims.
• California: In 2020, California enacted a similar law, allowing survivors a three year window to file claims for past sexual abuse that had previously been barred by the statute of limitations.
• New Jersey: The New Jersey Child Sexual Abuse Act, signed into law in 2019, provides a two-year window for survivors to file claims, as well as an extension of the statute of limitations for future claims.
• Washington State: Washington passed the “Eliminating the Statute of Limitations for Childhood Sexual Abuse” law in 2019, allowing survivors to file claims at any point in their lives. These laws represent critical steps toward addressing the injustices faced by survivors of childhood sexual abuse, providing them with avenues for justice and accountability.

The Legal Landscape Surrounding Look-Back Statutes

The Role of Advocacy Groups 

Advocacy organizations play a significant role in promoting the enactment of look-back statutes and raising awareness about childhood sexual abuse. Organizations such as the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP) and Darkness to Light work tirelessly to support survivors, provide resources, and lobby for legislative changes. Their efforts have been instrumental in highlighting the need for legal reforms that empower survivors to seek justice.

Challenges and Opposition

While look-back statutes have garnered significant support, they have also faced opposition from various stakeholders, including:

• Some religious organizations have expressed concerns that look back statutes could lead to an overwhelming number of claims against them, jeopardizing their financial stability and operations.
• Insurance companies may also oppose look-back statutes, fearing that they will be inundated with claims from policies that are many years old.
• Opponents of look-back statutes often argue that reviving old claims can be unfair to defendants, as evidence may be lost, and memories may fade over time.

Despite these challenges, the push for look-back statutes continues, driven by the recognition of the need for justice for survivors and the imperative to change the narrative surrounding childhood sexual abuse.

Legal Precedents

Several landmark cases have helped shape the legal landscape surrounding childhood sexual abuse and look-back statutes. These cases often involve survivors who sought justice against their abusers and the institutions that failed to protect them. For instance, the case Doe v. Holy See (2013) involved a plaintiff who alleged that the Catholic Church had covered up sexual abuse by a priest. The court ultimately ruled in favor of the survivor, allowing the case to proceed despite the statute of limitations having expired. This case set a precedent for the potential revival of claims based on the continuous nature of abuse and the institutions' complicity.

The Importance of Look-Back Statutes for Survivors

Empowering Survivors Look-back statutes empower survivors by providing them with the opportunity to seek justice, accountability, and closure. Many survivors may not come forward immediately due to fear, shame, or trauma. Look-back statutes acknowledge the complexities of trauma and the time it often takes for survivors to process their experiences and seek help.

Promoting Institutional Accountability

These statutes also serve to hold institutions accountable for their failures to protect children. By allowing survivors to file claims against organizations that may have enabled or covered up abuse, look-back statutes promote a culture of accountability and encourage institutions to take proactive measures to prevent future abuse.

Raising Awareness

The enactment of look-back statutes has also raised awareness about childhood sexual abuse and its long-lasting impacts. The media coverage surrounding these laws has brought the issue to the forefront of public discourse, prompting conversations about prevention, reporting, and support for survivors.

The Future of Look-Back Statutes

Ongoing Legislative Efforts As awareness of childhood sexual abuse continues to grow, advocates are working to expand the reach of look-back statutes across the nation. Several states are considering similar legislation, and advocacy groups are actively lobbying for reforms that would provide survivors with the opportunity to seek justice.

The Role of Education and Prevention

While legal remedies are essential for survivors, education and prevention must also be prioritized. Implementing comprehensive education programs within schools, religious institutions, and community organizations can help raise awareness about childhood sexual abuse and empower individuals to recognize and report abusive behavior.

Support Services for Survivors

In addition to legal reforms, it is crucial to provide support services for survivors. Counseling, therapy, and support groups can play a vital role in helping survivors heal from their trauma and navigate the complexities of their experiences. Increased access to mental health services can empower survivors to seek justice and reclaim their lives.

Childhood sexual abuse remains a pervasive issue in society, with far-reaching consequences for survivors and their families. Look-back statutes represent a critical step toward addressing the injustices faced by survivors and providing them with the opportunity to seek justice and accountability. As awareness of childhood sexual abuse continues to grow, it is essential to advocate for legal reforms, promote education and prevention efforts, and provide support services for survivors. By working together as a society, we can create a safer environment for children and ensure that survivors are empowered to reclaim their voices and seek the justice they deserve. If you or someone you know has been a victim of childhood sexual abuse, it is essential to seek help. Please reach out to Oshan & Associates for a confidential consultation. We are here to listen, support, and guide you in seeking justice and healing.