Every jurisdiction in our dataset that gives 20 years to file a sexual assault claim, with the governing statute.
Quick answer: 1 of 51 jurisdictions give 20 years for sexual assault claims: New York.
Data last reviewed: October 2026. General information, not legal advice.
| State | Statute | Clock starts |
|---|---|---|
| New York | N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 214-j (CAVS Act) | Date of last act (adult); age 55 for childhood abuse (CVA) |
1 of 51 jurisdictions: New York.
Other states allow 2 years, 3 years, 4 years, 5 years, 6 years, 7 years, 10 years, 12 years. See the links on this page for each group.
Not always. Many states pause or extend the clock for minors, for harm that is discovered late, or when the defendant hides the wrong, and claims against governments often require earlier notice. Check your state's page for its exceptions.