The barrier that matters most here
Queens is one of the most linguistically diverse counties in the United States. In practical
terms that means a significant number of survivors here faced an additional obstacle that has
nothing to do with what happened to them: not being able to report in their own language, or
fearing that raising it would expose them or a family member to immigration consequences.
Both concerns are real and both are addressable. Interpretation can be arranged. Immigration
status is a matter to raise at the outset so it can be handled properly, and it does not
automatically prevent a civil claim.
The institutions involved
Claims arising in Queens commonly involve its hospital systems, its universities and colleges,
and the city school system. As elsewhere, the institution’s own records (who was hired, who
was supervised, what was reported) usually carry the case.
Local detail that shapes a claim here
| Local detail | Who or what |
|---|---|
| County | Queens County |
| Police | NYPD |
| Hospital system | NewYork-Presbyterian Queens |
| Hospital system | NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst |
| Hospital system | Northwell Long Island Jewish Medical Center |
| University | St. John’s University |
| University | Queens College (CUNY) |
| University | York College (CUNY) |
| Local crisis support | Safe Horizon Rape & Sexual Assault Hotline, (212) 227-3000 |
| Diocese | Diocese of Brooklyn (covers Queens), Did not file Chapter 11 |
Support in Queens
If what you need right now is support rather than a lawyer, the services above are free and
independent of this firm. See survivor resources for
the full statewide list, including the RAINN hotline on
1-800-656-4673.
Time limits in New York turn on how old you were, who was responsible and the particular facts. Two rules anchor most cases: someone abused as a child can generally bring a civil claim up to their 55th birthday, and certain felony sexual offences suffered as an adult carry a 20 year window. Neither is the whole picture, and people regularly assume they are out of time when they are not. Ask rather than assume, it is a free call.
Do you take cases in Queens?
Yes. The practice covers New York State, including Queens. Where the abuse happened matters because it determines which institution is responsible and which court hears the claim, so tell us early in the conversation.
Do I have to come to your office?
No. The first conversation is by phone, and we make arrangements that suit you after that. Nobody is required to travel in order to ask a question.
Is a claim here different from elsewhere in New York?
Often, yes. The responsible institution, the county and, in clergy cases, the diocese all affect how a claim proceeds. That is why local detail is worth establishing at the start.
What does it cost?
Nothing to ask. These cases are handled on a contingency fee, so there is no fee unless there is a recovery.