Updates to Sexual Abuse Statute of Limitation Laws in 2026

The statute of limitations is a law that sets a strict time limit for filing legal claims. Civil statutes of limitation apply to plaintiffs. Such statutes for sexual abuse claims may limit the amount of time a victim of abuse has to file a civil lawsuit against those responsible for the abuse.

In recent years, many states have taken to updating their statutes of limitations for sexual abuse cases. Many states have either extended the time victims have to sue or abolished limitation periods altogether. As we go into 2026, several states are set to update their statutes or have pending legislation to do so.

For a free, private review of your case, contact our sexual abuse lawyers with The Law Office of Andrew Shubin at (814) 826-3586.

States with updated Statutes of Limitations for Sexual Abuse Civil Claims in 2026

Statutes of limitations often change. Several states are poised to update their statutes of limitations for civil sexual abuse claims in 2026. If you are unsure of the limitation period in your state, our sexual abuse lawyers can find out for you.

Alabama

In 2026, Alabama has pending legislation that would alter the statute of limitations for sexual abuse claims, if passed. AL HB121would extend the statute of limitations so that a victim assaulted while under the age of 19 must file a civil claim within 6 years of their 19th birthday. This effectively extends the statute of limitations to age 25, a significant increase from the previous limitation period of only 2 years.

Additionally, if the victim was under 19 and of “unsound mind,” they have 20 years from age 19 to file a civil claim, or 2 years after a criminal conviction, whichever is longer.

If passed, this new law would also create a look-back period for survivors of child sexual abuse whose claims are currently time-barred. They may file claims no later than January 1, 2029.

Arkansas

In 2026, the Arkansas Supreme Court may reopen a look-back window for survivors of child sexual abuse. The window was initially opened in 2021 for 2 years before being extended to February 1, 2026. However, it may remain open longer, depending on the court’s decision.

California

California lawmakers recently passed a new law that will change the civil statute of limitations for sexual abuse cases in 2026. The new law, AB 250, was signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in October 2025 and takes effect on January 1, 2026.

The new law creates a 2-year look-back period for adult survivors of sexual assault to bring previously time-barred claims. This law would revive claims and allow sexual abuse survivors more time to take legal action.

Colorado

In Colorado, voters may have the opportunity to allow the statute of limitations to be changed in a November 2026 election. Pending legislation under SRC 25-002 would let voters decide if lawmakers can eliminate the statute of limitations for sexual abuse claims.

Delaware

In Delaware, new legislation may eliminate the statute of limitations. If passed, new laws under HB 75 may completely remove the statute of limitations for victims of childhood sexual abuse. Additionally, victims who were previously time-barred would be able to file claims at any time.

Wisconsin

Pending legislation in Wisconsin may extend the statute of limitations for sexual abuse survivors in 2026. Assembly Bill 414would double the limitation period from 10 to 20 years. This legislation is still pending as of January 2026.

FAQs About Statutes of Limitations for Sexual Abuse Cases

How Long is the Statute of Limitations for Civil Sexual Abuse Claims?

The statute of limitations varies by state. While some states allow victims of sexual abuse to have many years, even decades, to file a claim, others might only allow victims a few short years. Still, some states have completely abolished the statute of limitations, allowing victims to file civil claims at any time.

Is the Civil Statute of Limitations for Sexual Abuse Cases Different from Criminal Cases?

Yes. Criminal and civil statutes of limitations are separate. If one limitation period closes, the other might still be open. In many states, there is no statute of limitations for criminal prosecution of sexual abuse charges, but there is one for civil claims. Your attorney can advise you on the relevant laws of your state.

Is the Sexual Abuse Statute of Limitations the Same for Everyone?

No. Many states have different statutes for victims who were children and those who were adults when the sexual abuse occurred. Since children often cannot initiate legal action on their own, they tend to have much more time to bring civil claims than adult victims.

How Often Do Statutes of Limitation Change?

While statutes of limitations do not change very often, there has been a growing trend across many states to update the statutes of limitations for sexual abuse civil claims. Many states have greatly extended the time that victims have to file civil claims. Some states have completely abolished their statutes of limitations, allowing victims to sue regardless of how much time has passed.

Can I Have More Time Than the Statute of Limitations Allows for Sexual Abuse Cases?

Possibly. Under very specific circumstances, plaintiffs may have the statute of limitations tolled, thereby extending their time to file civil claims. A common example of tolling is infancy. When a victim is a minor, the statute of limitations may be tolled, and the limitation period does not begin until the victim’s 18th birthday.

What Happens if the Statute of Limitations Runs Out?

If the limitation period allowed by the statute of limitations runs out, you may be unable to file your civil claim. It is crucial that you and your attorney file your case on time. Otherwise, you may need to find a valid legal reason to have the statute tolled.

Contact Our Sexual Abuse Attorneys for Legal Help

For a free, private review of your case, contact our sexual abuse lawyers with The Law Office of Andrew Shubin at (814) 826-3586.