New Rights for Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse

Posted on April 15, 2026 - By Steven Boyd
Steven Boyd

Holding Buffalo and Rochester Clergy Responsible

New Yorkers who were sexually abused as kids have new rights to make claims against teachers, clergy and other organizations under the new Child Victims Act. Under the new law, someone who survives sexual abuse as a child can bring a claim during a one year window. The window will begin in mid-summer 2019. This is called a “look back” period to bring old claims no matter the age of the survivor.

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The Diocese of Buffalo Paid Large Settlements to Survivors

In 2018, the Diocese of Buffalo began paying large settlements to survivors of these crimes. Attorney Steve Boyd obtained the largest known settlement decision against the Diocese of Buffalo in December of 2018.

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Steve Boyd

Since 1999, Steve has been a beacon of hope for survivors, representing them with utmost dedication in the most challenging times of their lives. Catastrophic injuries, accidents, sexual abuse, wrongful death incidents – your battle becomes his. Recognized by peers and clients alike, Steve successfully leverages his years of experience to secure substantial verdicts and settlements for clients. Representing over 3,000 personal injury survivors in New York State and Pennsylvania, his accolades speak for his unwavering resolve.

Got questions? We have answers.

We understand the sensitivity and discretion required in handling these cases. Our Buffalo sexual abuse attorneys are very experienced in handling these cases in a confidential way. We have deep understanding of the history of these cases and will work to get our clients the best settlement or verdict possible.

We understand that having been sexually abused as a child can be extremely difficult to talk about, and thousands of survivors have not come forward for that reason.

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Unsure if you have a case? Let’s have a conversation; it will be completely confidential. We’ll believe you. We’ll walk you through the process so that you understand what this is, what we’ll do, and how your case will go as we stand with you every single step of the way.

Steve Boyd

If you are considering pursuing a claim, you can call Attorney Steve Boyd confidentially at 585-600-0000 or  716-600-0000 .
All consultations will remain confidential – even if you decide not to pursue a sexual abuse claim with our firm. If a priest sexually abused you or a loved one in or around the Buffalo or Rochester area, contact Steve Boyd today.

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This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by attorney Steve Boyd who has more than 25 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney specializing in child sexual abuse and clergy abuse cases.

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