Legal updates on the Adult Survivors Act and sexual abuse litigation.
This course provides an in-depth look at legal protections available to survivors of sexual violence, focusing on the Adult Survivors Act (ASA) and the Gender-Motivated Violence Act (GMVA). Participants will gain insight into the history, purpose, and practical applications of these laws, including the extended statute of limitations and the avenues for civil litigation against perpetrators. The session will also cover the broader legal landscape surrounding sexual violence cases, strategies for survivor advocacy, and ethical considerations for attorneys handling these cases. By exploring real-world examples and litigation strategies, legal professionals will be better equipped to seek justice for survivors and navigate complex legal challenges.
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The NYS Academy of Trial Lawyers is the largest statewide trial bar in the US with 5,700+ lawyer and judge members. We are committed to protecting, preserving and enhancing the civil justice system. Our highly acclaimed CLE programming features extraordinary presenters covering the most timely and important topics.
Past President of the Academy and chair of the Brooklyn Bar Association Medical Malpractice Committee
John graduated from Georgetown University with a degree in American Government, and thereafter graduated magna cum laude from Brooklyn Law School. He is a partner in the law firm of Bonina and Bonina, where he focuses his practice on representing adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse, as well as victims of medical negligence. He is a Past President of the Academy and chair of the Brooklyn Bar Association Medical Malpractice committee. In his 30+ years in practice, he has recovered countless 7-figure verdicts and settlements for his clients, and is known for his tireless preparation and tech-based courtroom presentations.
Associate at Marsh Law Firm
Helene is an Associate at Marsh Law Firm and works to protect the rights of survivors of abuse. Helene works on a wide range of matters representing survivors of childhood sexual abuse, child pornography, and campus sexual abuse, harassment, and retaliation. Helene is a former Special Victims Bureau Prosecutor at the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office, where she prosecuted an extensive array of criminal matters and successfully litigated dozens of jury and bench trials. Helene earned her Juris Doctorate from the Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University and her Bachelor’s from Ithaca College. Helene was awarded an Outstanding Women in Law distinction in 2021 for her meaningful and inspiring contributions to the legal community.
