Iowa Governor Signs Bill to Remove the Criminal SOL for Child Sex Abuse Victims
Posted on: August 11, 2021 Sexual Abuse & Assault Lawsuits
In May, Governor Kim Reynolds of Iowa, signed Senate File 562 into law which removes the criminal statute of limitations for sexual abuse and exploitation of a minor. Previously the law required that criminal charges be filed within 15 years of the victim turning 18, or age 33.
Unfortunately, Iowa legislators have done very little to help survivors of childhood sexual abuse file civil claims against their abusers or the institutions responsible. While Iowa does have a discovery rule, allowing victims up to 4 years to file a claim after a connection is made between his/her injury and the abuse, most child abuse victims only have until age 19 to file a civil claim. Iowa has made minor ‘exceptions’ to this age cap, allowing child abuse victims who were abused by an ‘adult providing training or instruction’ an additional 5 years after the treatment or after the victim was last in school to file a civil claim. Even with these minor extensions, it is likely the Iowa laws are not providing survivors of child sex abuse the time they need to file a claim and get the justice they deserve.
The entire article can be viewed here.
Iowa Sexual Assault Abuse
If you or a loved one were a victim of sexual abuse, contact our firm today or learn more by visiting our Iowa sexual abuse lawsuits page. Our firm reviews cases of sexual abuse and assault nationwide and can help you understand your legal options. Your time to file sexual abuse and assault claim is limited. Call us today at 1-800-941-7209 for a FREE and PRIVATE consultation.