Fighting for Survivors of Foster Care Sexual Abuse in New York
Children placed in foster care deserve safety, protection, and compassion. Tragically, some suffer sexual abuse at the hands of foster parents, caregivers, or others responsible for their welfare. At The Fitch Law Firm, we help survivors of foster care sexual abuse seek justice and compensation for the trauma they’ve endured.
Our firm has years of experience representing victims of institutional sexual abuse. We understand the profound impact these traumatic experiences have on survivors, and we’re committed to holding abusers and negligent agencies accountable.
THE CRISIS OF SEXUAL ABUSE IN FOSTER CARE
The foster care system exists to provide safe homes for vulnerable children, but alarming statistics reveal a troubling reality:
STATISTICS REVEAL THE SCOPE OF THE PROBLEM:
- According to a study by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, children in foster care are 10 times more likely to experience sexual abuse than children living with both biological parents.
- Research published in the Journal of Child Abuse & Neglect found that 24% of former foster youth reported at least one unwanted sexual experience while in care.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that approximately 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 13 boys experience sexual abuse before the age of 18, with increased risk for children in out-of-home placements.
- A report by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services documented 1,342 allegations of sexual abuse across all childcare settings in 2022, with foster care placements accounting for approximately 28% of these reports.
- In 2023, there were over 15,000 children in New York’s foster care system according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, representing thousands of vulnerable youth at heightened risk.
RECOGNIZING ABUSE PATTERNS
| Forms of Sexual Abuse | Common Settings Where Abuse Occurs |
| • Inappropriate touching or fondling | • Individual foster homes |
| • Sexual assault or rape | • Group homes or residential facilities |
| • Exposure to sexual content or activities | • Treatment centers |
| • Sexual exploitation or trafficking | • During supervised visits |
| • Sexual harassment or grooming behaviors | • In transit between placements |
NEW YORK FOSTER CARE PROGRAMS AND OVERSIGHT
Several agencies and programs oversee foster care in New York State:
STATE AND LOCAL AGENCIES
New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS)
The primary regulatory agency responsible for foster care in New York
Administration for Children’s Services (ACS)
Manages foster care in New York City
County Departments of Social Services
Oversee foster care in counties outside NYC
PLACEMENT PROGRAMS
- Therapeutic Foster Care Program
Provides specialized care for children with emotional or behavioral needs - Family Foster Care
Traditional placement with certified foster families - Kinship Foster Care
Placement with relatives who become certified foster parents - Group Homes and Residential Treatment Facilities
For children requiring higher levels of supervision
According to the New York State Comptroller’s Office, despite increased oversight efforts, significant accountability gaps remain. In a 2022 audit, inspectors found that:
43% of foster homes had at least one compliance issue related to safety requirements
37% of reported incidents were not investigated within required timeframes
26% of foster parent background checks were incomplete or improperly documented
SYSTEMIC FAILURES THAT ENABLE ABUSE
When agencies fail to properly:
- Screen foster parents and other adults in the home
- Conduct thorough background checks
- Provide adequate supervision and monitoring
- Investigate allegations promptly
- Remove children from dangerous situations
LEGAL OPTIONS FOR SURVIVORS OF FOSTER CARE SEXUAL ABUSE
Survivors of foster care sexual abuse have legal rights and options to seek justice. The Fitch Law Firm helps victims pursue:
CIVIL LAWSUITS AGAINST RESPONSIBLE PARTIES
WE CAN HELP FILE CLAIMS AGAINST:
- Individual perpetrators
- Foster care agencies
- Government entities
- Treatment facilities
- Supervisory personnel
COMPENSATION FOR DAMAGES
| Type of Damages | Examples |
| Medical Expenses | • Past treatment costs • Future therapy needs • Psychiatric medication |
| Non-Economic Damages | • Pain and suffering • Emotional distress • Loss of enjoyment of life |
| Economic Losses | • Lost wages • Reduced earning capacity • Educational setbacks |
| Punitive Damages | • In cases of gross negligence • When defendants showed reckless disregard |
EXTENDED STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS UNDER THE CHILD VICTIMS ACT
The New York Child Victims Act has expanded opportunities for survivors to seek justice. This important legislation:
- Allows survivors to file civil lawsuits until age 55
- Created a look-back window that allowed previously time-barred claims
- Recognizes the delayed disclosure common in sexual abuse cases
According to the New York State Unified Court System, more than 10,700 cases were filed during the Child Victims Act look-back window, with a significant portion related to foster care and institutional settings.
WHY CHOOSE THE FITCH LAW FIRM FOR YOUR FOSTER CARE SEXUAL ABUSE CASE
EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE WITH INSTITUTIONAL ABUSE CASES
The Fitch Law Firm has successfully represented survivors of institutional sexual abuse, and can help those harmed in foster care settings. We understand the complex legal and emotional challenges these cases present.
PROVEN TRACK RECORD OF SUCCESS
Our firm has secured significant settlements and verdicts for sexual abuse survivors. We approach each case with determination, sensitivity, and a commitment to achieving justice.
COMPASSIONATE, TRAUMA-INFORMED APPROACH
We recognize that discussing sexual abuse is extremely difficult. Our team provides a safe, supportive environment for clients to share their experiences. We work at your pace and respect your boundaries throughout the legal process.
RESOURCES TO TAKE ON POWERFUL INSTITUTIONS
Taking legal action against government agencies and institutions requires substantial resources and expertise. The Fitch Law Firm has the financial strength, investigative capabilities, and legal knowledge to effectively challenge these powerful entities.
ATTORNEY JOHN FITCH: A DEDICATED ADVOCATE FOR ABUSE SURVIVORS
Lead attorney John Fitch has devoted a significant portion of his 30-year legal career to representing survivors of sexual abuse. His expertise in this sensitive area of law includes:
FOCUSED TRAINING
Trauma-informed legal representation techniques that prioritize client comfort and well-being
DEEP KNOWLEDGE
Comprehensive understanding of New York’s foster care system and relevant laws
NEGOTIATION SKILLS
Skill in discussions with government agencies and insurance companies
COURTROOM EXCELLENCE
Powerful advocacy when settlement isn’t possible
Attorney John Fitch’s compassionate approach and legal acumen have earned him recognition from peers and clients alike. He believes that survivors deserve not only compensation but also validation and closure.
SIGNS A CHILD IN FOSTER CARE MAY BE EXPERIENCING SEXUAL ABUSE
Recognizing the warning signs of sexual abuse is critical. These may include:
BEHAVIORAL INDICATORS
- Sudden changes in behavior or personality
- Age-inappropriate sexual knowledge or behavior
- Fear of certain people or places
- Regression to earlier behaviors
PHYSICAL SIGNS
- Sleep disturbances or nightmares
- Unexplained injuries
- Difficulty walking or sitting
- Physical symptoms like UTIs or STIs
EMOTIONAL RED FLAGS
- Withdrawal from activities once enjoyed
- Reluctance to change clothes or participate in physical activities
- Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
- Excessive fear or anxiety
IF YOU NOTICE THESE SIGNS IN A CHILD CURRENTLY IN FOSTER CARE, CONTACT THE NEW YORK STATE CENTRAL REGISTER OF CHILD ABUSE AND MALTREATMENT AT 1-800-342-3720 IMMEDIATELY.
THE LONG-TERM IMPACT OF FOSTER CARE SEXUAL ABUSE
Sexual abuse in childhood can have devastating, long-lasting effects. Research reveals troubling statistics about these impacts:
MENTAL HEALTH CONSEQUENCES
- According to the National Institute of Justice, childhood sexual abuse increases the likelihood of future criminal justice involvement by 59%.
- The American Journal of Public Health reports that survivors of childhood sexual abuse are 3 times more likely to experience major depression and 4 times more likely to develop substance use disorders.
PHYSICAL HEALTH IMPACTS
- Research in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that sexual abuse survivors have 2-3 times higher rates of suicide attempts compared to the general population.
- A longitudinal study by the National Child Traumatic Stress Network revealed that childhood sexual abuse victims had 30% higher healthcare costs as adults compared to their non-abused peers.
ECONOMIC BURDEN
- The Economic Burden of Child Sexual Abuse study estimated the lifetime economic burden of child sexual abuse at approximately $9.3 billion per year in the United States.
COMMON LONG-TERM EFFECTS INCLUDE:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Depression and anxiety
- Trust and relationship difficulties
- Increased risk of substance abuse
- Higher rates of revictimization
- Educational and employment challenges
- Chronic health problems
These impacts highlight why proper legal advocacy and compensation are so important—survivors often need lifelong support and resources to heal.
THE PROCESS OF SEEKING JUSTICE
When you work with The Fitch Law Firm on a foster care sexual abuse case, we provide comprehensive support through every step:
1. INITIAL CONSULTATION
A confidential, pressure-free meeting to discuss your experience and explore legal options
- We listen to your story with compassion
- We explain potential legal pathways
- No obligation to proceed
2. INVESTIGATION
Thorough gathering of evidence, which may include:
- Foster care placement records
- Agency documentation and communications
- Witness statements
- Expert evaluations
3. CASE BUILDING
Development of a strong legal strategy tailored to your specific situation
- Working with experts to establish damages
- Identifying all potentially liable parties
- Building compelling legal arguments
4. NEGOTIATION
Skilled representation in settlement discussions
- Avoiding the potential trauma of trial when possible
- Fighting for fair and full compensation
- Maintaining your privacy and dignity
5. LITIGATION
Aggressive courtroom advocacy if a fair settlement cannot be reached
- Thorough trial preparation
- Compelling presentation of evidence
- Protection of your rights throughout the process
6. RESOLUTION
Securing maximum compensation and a sense of justice and closure
- Ensuring all terms of settlements are fulfilled
- Connecting you with ongoing support resources
- Providing closure to the legal process
Throughout this process, we provide regular updates, answer your questions, and ensure you understand each development in your case.
SUPPORT RESOURCES FOR SURVIVORS
While pursuing legal action, many survivors benefit from additional support. We can connect you with valuable resources, including:
THERAPY AND COUNSELING SERVICES
Specialized trauma treatment from professionals experienced in abuse recovery
SURVIVOR SUPPORT GROUPS
Connection with others who understand your experiences
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
Help with immediate needs during the legal process
ADVOCACY ORGANIZATIONS
Additional support and community resources
According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), survivors who receive specialized support services are more likely to report their abuse and experience better recovery outcomes.
CONTACT THE FITCH LAW FIRM TODAY
If you or someone you love suffered sexual abuse while in foster care, The Fitch Law Firm is here to help. We offer:
- Free, confidential consultations
- No fees unless we recover compensation for you
- Compassionate, trauma-informed legal representation
- Thorough investigation of your case
- Aggressive advocacy for maximum compensation