New Jersey Assembly Bill A163

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Eliminates statute of limitations for civil actions arising from sexual assault and other crimes and offenses of a sexual nature committed against a person 18 years of age or older.

Impact

The enactment of A163 would significantly alter existing state law by removing the limitations on when civil actions can be initiated for claims related to sexual assault and offenses of a sexual nature. This change reflects an evolving understanding of the trauma associated with such crimes and the barriers that prevent survivors from seeking justice. This bill would be applicable retrospectively, meaning it would not only apply to future cases but could also revive claims that were previously barred due to the expiration of the statute of limitations. For victims whose cases had been dismissed previously on those grounds, this provision opens a door to legal remedies that were once closed.

Summary

Assembly Bill 163, introduced by Assemblywoman Linda S. Carter, proposes the elimination of the statute of limitations for civil actions arising from sexual assault and other sexual offenses committed against individuals aged 18 years or older. The current law requires that personal injury lawsuits generally be filed within two years of the incident, but this bill seeks to allow victims of sexual crimes to file lawsuits at any point in time, irrespective of when the incident occurred. This change aims to strengthen legal recourse for survivors of such offenses, addressing the often long-delayed reporting of sexual violence incidents due to various psychological and societal factors.

Contention

While A163 aims to empower survivors and encourage them to come forward, it may bring about concerns among opponents regarding the implications of removing statutes of limitations entirely. Critics argue that eliminating such legal limits could lead to a flood of claims based on events that may have occurred decades prior, potentially complicating the legal landscape. The revival of previously closed cases could create challenges in gathering evidence, particularly in cases where detailed recollections fade over time, casting doubt on the viability of claims. The balance between ensuring justice for victims and protecting defendants' rights is likely to be a key point of contention as discussions around the bill progress.