If you are thinking about claiming compensation for abuse, it is important not to delay in contacting our confidential helpline for a free consultation with our independently recommended abuse lawyers.
Is there a time limit on reporting abuse? Our specialist abuse lawyers summarise the legal position.
When seeking compensation for abuse, strict legal time limits often apply. Understanding these deadlines is crucial for survivors who are considering legal action.
Current time limits for abuse claims
In most cases, survivors of abuse must bring a civil compensation claim within three years from the date of the abuse or, in the case of childhood abuse, three years from the survivor’s 18th birthday. This means that for survivors of childhood abuse compensation claims should be made before the age of 21.
However, courts have the discretion to allow abuse claims outside of these time limits in exceptional circumstances. Factors such as psychological trauma, delayed reporting due to fear, or new evidence coming to light may be considered when determining whether to extend the deadline, as well as whether sufficient evidence is available to allow a fair trial to take place.
The CICA criminal injuries compensation has its own set of rules governing time limits.
Proposed changes to the law
In February 2025 the Ministry of Justice announced that they are plans to remove the time limit for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. If these reforms are implemented, survivors would be able to bring claims at any time, regardless of how many years have passed. It is understood that the only limit if the changes proposed do become law would be whether it is still possible for there to be a fair trial.
The proposed change acknowledges the long-lasting impact of abuse and the fact that many abuse survivors take decades to feel ready to come forward. While this proposal marks a step toward greater legal protection for survivors, the law has not yet changed, and claims are still subject to existing time limits.
Why act now?
Even if legal reforms are introduced in the future, there are still practical reasons to consider taking action sooner rather than later. Over time, crucial evidence can become harder to obtain, and witnesses’ memories may fade, potentially making a case more difficult to prove. If the proposed change passes into law our specialist lawyers would still anticipate receiving arguments from defendants on whether there can be a fair trial, meaning that survivors may still face many of the same issues that face them now when seeking justice through the civil courts.
If you are considering making an abuse compensation claim, it is advisable to seek expert legal advice as soon as possible. A specialist lawyer can assess your situation and guide you through the legal process, ensuring the best possible chance of success.
Free consultation
If you would like further guidance on the question, ‘Is there a time limit on reporting abuse?’ and details of no win, no fee funding then contact us for a free confidential consultation with our specialist abuse team.