Statute of Limitations for a Childhood Sexual Abuse Lawsuit
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Reviewed & verified by A. Jason Velez, Esq.*
Managing Attorney, 1LAW · Last reviewed January 19, 2026
Legal Inquiry
Consumer Legal Issue
I don't see my option.
When I was 6 years old I was sexually abused at a daycare. I experienced abuse from the workers as well. I am hoping to sue for damages now I’m 24 years old.
Attorney Answer
You are very likely not too late to sue: Illinois has eliminated the statute of limitations for civil claims based on childhood sexual abuse, so a claim over abuse that happened at a daycare when you were 6 can generally still be filed today at age 24.
Under Illinois Compiled Statutes § 5/13-202.2, there is no longer any deadline for filing a civil lawsuit based on childhood sexual abuse — such claims may generally be brought at any time. The one narrow exception covers claims that were already barred under an older, shorter deadline before this change took effect; if that applied to your situation the analysis would differ, but for most survivors coming forward now, the door remains open.
What you can do:
1. Gather any records tied to the daycare and that time period — enrollment paperwork, staff names, prior complaints, and your own written timeline of what you remember.
2. Look for others who may have witnessed or experienced abuse at the same daycare, since corroborating accounts can strengthen a claim.
3. Consult a local Illinois attorney who handles childhood sexual abuse claims — with the deadline eliminated, the focus is now on building the strongest case (evidence, identifying responsible parties, insurance) rather than racing against an expiring clock.
4. Ask the attorney to confirm how the law applies to your exact timeline, since the narrow time-barred exception could still matter.
⏱ Time limits apply. While Illinois Compiled Statutes § 5/13-202.2 has removed the general filing deadline for childhood sexual abuse claims, a narrow exception can still bar claims that expired before the change — a local attorney should review your situation promptly to confirm where you stand.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a deadline to sue over childhood sexual abuse?
In many states, statutes of limitations for childhood sexual abuse claims have been extended or eliminated, though a narrow exception can still apply to claims already time-barred under older law.
What evidence helps support a claim filed years after the abuse occurred?
Generally, records from the time period, staff or facility information, and any corroborating witnesses can help strengthen a claim.
Who can be held liable for abuse that occurred at a daycare or care facility?
Generally, both individual abusers and the facility itself may potentially be liable, depending on what the facility knew or should have prevented.
