Rhode Island’s civil statute of limitations previously barred many survivors of childhood sexual abuse from filing a lawsuit. Effective July 1, 2026, the state opened a two-year revival window, running through June 30, 2028, that allows eligible survivors to bring civil claims that were previously time-barred.
Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC represents Rhode Island survivors who are ready to pursue accountability, whether the abuse happened recently or decades ago. If you were sexually abused as a child, we can help you seek justice. Call (800) 220-0984 to speak with our mass tort attorneys in a free, confidential consultation.
Why Do Childhood Sexual Abuse Survivors Choose Our Firm?
- We handle every childhood sexual abuse case with the confidentiality you deserve. You can come forward on your own terms, without fear of being publicly identified.
- Our attorneys listen to your story with care and compassion, and we keep you informed at every stage so you always know where your case stands.
- We work on a contingency fee basis, so pursuing your claim costs you nothing upfront and no legal fees at all unless we recover compensation.
How Long Do Rhode Island Sexual Abuse Survivors Have to File a Claim?
Rhode Island previously required most survivors to file a claim by age 53, or within 35 years of turning 18, closing the door on many claims before survivors were ready to come forward. The state’s new revival window, open from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, temporarily lifts that deadline for these claims.
How a Childhood Sexual Abuse Attorney Can Protect Your Rights
Coming forward about childhood sexual abuse, especially abuse that happened years or decades ago, takes a great deal of courage. Many survivors carry feelings of shame, self-doubt, or fear of not being believed, even though none of it was their fault.
An attorney can help you turn that step into a formal legal claim. At Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC, we will work to identify every party who may share responsibility, gather the records and documentation needed to support your case, and make sure your claim is filed correctly within Rhode Island’s applicable filing period.
Our attorneys also communicate directly with institutions and their legal counsel on your behalf. Throughout your case, we prioritize your privacy and keep you informed of your options in plain language, without legal jargon standing between you and your decisions.
Who Can Be Held Legally Responsible in a Childhood Sexual Abuse Case?
Liability in these cases often extends beyond the individual who committed the abuse. Institutions and supervising adults can also be held accountable if they ignored warning signs, failed to properly screen or supervise staff, or covered up misconduct.
Parties who may be named in a claim include:
- Clergy members and religious institutions
- Teachers, coaches, and school administrators
- Foster parents and foster care agencies
- Staff at juvenile detention or troubled teen programs
- Camp counselors and youth program staff
- Any institution that knew of, concealed, or failed to prevent abuse
Reach Out to Shapiro Legal Group for a Confidential Consultation
If you were sexually abused in Rhode Island, Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC will listen to your story and help you decide whether pursuing a claim is right for you, all in complete confidence. Rhode Island’s revival window will not stay open indefinitely, and the sooner your case is investigated, the stronger it can be. Schedule a free, confidential consultation today to learn more about your legal options.