Look-Back Statutes for Sexual Assault Claims

A second chance at justice — no matter how long it’s been.

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Speaking up about sexual abuse often takes years or even decades. Look-back laws were created for that very reason, giving survivors a second chance to pursue justice even after old deadlines have passed. 

At Potts Law Firm, we meet you with patience and steady support while we help you understand every option available right now.

Why Do You Need a Lawyer?

Look-back laws create opportunities, but they also come with legal deadlines, evidence challenges, and institutional pushback. A lawyer helps you move through the entire process.

Understand Whether a Look-Back Statute Applies

Every state handles look-back statutes differently. We help you understand your rights, the timelines, and whether you qualify under your state’s sexual abuse look-back statutes.

Investigate Even Decades-Old Abuse

Old cases are still solvable. We work to uncover records, witnesses, institutional documents, and patterns of misconduct that help strengthen your claim.

Hold Institutions Accountable

Churches, schools, youth organizations, and other institutions often fought to keep these stories buried. We stand beside you and push for accountability, no matter how many years have passed.

Protect Your Privacy

Many survivors of sexual abuse worry about being exposed. You can file anonymously in many situations, and we take extra care to shield your identity wherever possible.

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    Types of Look-Back Law Cases We’ve Handled

    Childhood and Teenage Sexual Abuse

    We represent survivors who were abused as children or teens by clergy, teachers, coaches, physicians, or trusted authority figures.
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    Church & Clergy Abuse

    Our attorneys work with survivors whose claims involve priests, pastors, deacons, youth ministers, or church volunteers, especially in states with active look-back windows.
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    Institutional Abuse

    This includes schools, summer camps, nursing home care, sports organizations, foster care agencies, and any place responsible for a loved one’s supervision.
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    Start Your Look-Back Law Claim Review

    We’ll review your situation, explain your rights, and help you understand exactly what you can do next.

    Call or Book a Free Case Review

    The Process for Filing Under the Look-Back Law

    Schedule a Free Consultation

    You’ll meet with an attorney who takes time to hear your story. Then, we’ll explain the look-back law that applies to your state and the period of time.

    Build a Private, Safe Plan

    You choose how much to share and when. We help you move forward in a way that respects your privacy and emotional comfort.

    Investigate the Abuse and the Institution

    Look-back cases often involve uncovering old records or patterns of abuse. We gather documents, reports, witnesses, and institutional histories to build a strong case.

    Seek Justice and Compensation

    Whether through settlement or litigation, we push for meaningful accountability so you can move on with your life.

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    Why Choose Potts Law Firm?

    A Survivor-Centered Approach

    We know coming forward takes enormous courage. Our attorneys will meet you with compassion, respect, and a commitment to making this process as smooth as possible.

    Experience With Look-Back Statutes Nationwide

    States across the U.S. have enacted look-back laws for sexual abuse. Our attorneys track these changes closely and help survivors understand which windows apply to their situations.

    Strength to Take On Large Institutions

    Schools, churches, and youth organizations often have legal teams ready to protect themselves. We bring the resources and determination needed to stand toe-to-toe with them.

    FAQs About Look-Back Laws for Sexual Abuse

    Which states have look-back windows for sexual abuse?

    Several states (including California, New York, Louisiana, New Jersey, and others) have passed look-back statutes that reopen expired deadlines for sexual abuse claims. Each state sets its own rules and timelines, and a look-back law attorney can help you understand whether your state’s window applies to your situation.

    Can I file anonymously under a look-back statute?

    In many cases, yes. Courts often allow survivors to file under initials or as “John/Jane Doe,” and our team takes extra steps to protect your identity throughout the look-back law process.

    Do I need proof from decades ago?

    Sexual abuse look-back statutes recognize that older evidence may be limited, so claims can rely on witness accounts, institutional records, past complaints, patterns of misconduct, or even financial transactions. We investigate thoroughly to build the strongest case possible.

    How is a look-back law different from extending the statute of limitations?

    Sexual abuse lookback statutes temporarily reopen expired deadlines, allowing survivors to file claims that were previously time-barred. Extending the statute of limitations only affects future cases, while look-back windows give past survivors a second chance to take action now.

    Ask About Your Look-Back Rights

    When a look-back window opens, it can be hard to know whether you qualify. Get in touch with Potts Law Firm to explore your options.

    Call or Book a Free Case Review