Why Manhattan claims look different
Manhattan holds the densest concentration of academic medical centres in New York State. That
single fact shapes the abuse claims that arise here more than anything else: a large share
involve a doctor and, behind the doctor, a teaching hospital or university that employed,
credentialed and supervised them.
Institutional defendants of that size litigate seriously. They also keep extensive records,
which is the other half of the picture: credentialing files, complaint histories and internal
reviews exist and are discoverable.
Documented institutional litigation here
Manhattan institutions have faced significant abuse litigation, including claims against
Columbia University and its affiliated hospitals arising from the conduct of an
obstetrician-gynecologist, and historic paediatric claims involving
Rockefeller University Hospital. Both are matters of public record.
If your case involves a Manhattan hospital, see also
claims involving Dr. Robert Hadden.
Local detail that shapes a claim here
| Local detail | Who or what |
|---|---|
| County | New York County |
| Police | NYPD |
| Hospital system | NewYork-Presbyterian |
| Hospital system | Mount Sinai Health System |
| Hospital system | NYU Langone Health |
| Hospital system | Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital |
| University | Columbia University |
| University | New York University |
| University | The New School |
| University | Pace University |
| Local crisis support | Safe Horizon Rape & Sexual Assault Hotline, (212) 227-3000 |
| Diocese | Archdiocese of New York, Did not file Chapter 11 |
| Institutional litigation | Columbia University / Dr. Robert Hadden, obstetrician-gynecologist abuse litigation and settlements |
| Institutional litigation | Rockefeller University Hospital, historic pediatric endocrinology abuse claims |
Support in Manhattan
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 Manhattan?
Yes. The practice covers New York State, including Manhattan. 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.