SSKB News

Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro, LLP (SSKB) announces a $1.125 million settlement in a Child Victims Act (CVA) case against the City of New York and the New York City Department of Education (DOE), secured by Partner Edward Nitkewicz and Associate Brooke McDonald.

The case involved allegations of sexual abuse occurring within the New York City public school system. The defendants initially offered $250,000, which was ultimately rejected. Following continued litigation efforts and case development, the matter was resolved for more than four times that amount.

Cases brought under the Child Victims Act often present significant legal and evidentiary challenges. Many claims involve incidents that occurred years or decades earlier, requiring careful reconstruction of facts, corroboration, and strategic litigation to establish liability.

Despite these hurdles, CVA litigation has created a pathway for survivors to seek accountability from institutions that may have failed to prevent or respond to abuse.

Joint Statement from Edward Nitkewicz and Brooke McDonald:

“We are humbled by the great responsibility that we bear in representing victims of sexual abuse under the Child Victims Act. The evidentiary challenges are significant given the amount of time that has passed since the horrific abuse suffered by our clients. However, the satisfaction of helping victims secure justice for the damage caused by these horrific acts is immeasurable. We are proud to stand beside each of them in their fight.”

This resolution reflects the firm’s continued focus on handling complex and sensitive cases involving institutional accountability and long-term harm.

Ongoing Legal Options for Survivors

While the filing window under the Child Victims Act has closed, potential legal avenues may still exist depending on the facts and jurisdiction.

Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro continues to evaluate:

• Nationwide claims involving institutional or organizational sexual abuse, including cases involving schools, religious organizations, youth programs, and other entities; and
• Claims arising under the Gender-Motivated Violence Act, which provides a separate legal pathway for certain survivors of gender-motivated violence within the five boroughs of New York City.

These claims are highly fact-specific and subject to strict legal requirements, including timing limitations. Individuals considering legal action should seek a prompt evaluation to determine whether a viable claim exists.

For more information, contact Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro at 800-675-8556 or visit sskblaw.com