In Connecticut, the time limits for reporting sexual assault depend on the age of the victim at the time of the assault and the type of offense. Importantly, Connecticut has expanded these laws significantly in recent years to give survivors more time.
Here is how it works:
If the survivor was a minor (under 18) at the time of the assault:
There is NO statute of limitations for many felony sexual assault crimes against children.
This means criminal charges can be brought at any time, even decades later, depending on the offense.
For other child sexual abuse offenses, Connecticut allows prosecution many years after the survivor turns 18, often until their 40s or later, depending on the charge.
What this means in practice:
A person who was abused as a child can often report the assault well into adulthood, and law enforcement can still investigate.
If the survivor was an adult (18 or older) at the time of the assault:
For most felony sexual assaults, the statute of limitations is 20 years from the date of the assault.
For certain serious felony offenses, prosecution may still be possible beyond that timeframe.
Civil lawsuits (separate from criminal cases)
Civil cases are different from criminal prosecution.
Survivors of childhood sexual abuse in Connecticut can file a civil lawsuit up to age 51, and in some cases longer.
Survivors assaulted as adults generally have a shorter window, but Connecticut has expanded civil options compared to many states.
A civil case is about accountability and damages, not incarceration.
Important things parents should know:
Reporting is not the same as prosecuting. A survivor can talk to police, an advocate, or a counselor without committing to charges.
You do not need to know the statute of limitations before seeking help. Advocates and law enforcement can explain options.
Support services are available regardless of how much time has passed. Counseling, advocacy, and medical care are not limited by statutes of limitation.