Survivors of Abuse NJ announced the expansion of its informational and educational resources designed to support sexual abuse survivors across New Jersey. Based in Cherry Hill, the organization provides civil legal representation and trauma-informed guidance to individuals impacted by sexual abuse in institutional, professional, or private settings. The initiative reflects the firm’s commitment to increasing awareness of survivors’ rights under New Jersey law and to strengthening access to accurate information about the civil justice process.
“Reliable information is essential for survivors as they consider their options and take steps toward accountability,” said Joseph L. Messa, Esq., attorney at Survivors of Abuse NJ. “Our goal is to provide clear, factual resources that help individuals understand their rights under the law and the processes available to pursue justice.”

The organization’s expanded resources include legal education materials, outreach programs, and informational content outlining the procedures for filing civil claims related to sexual abuse. These materials address common questions about statutes of limitation, institutional liability, and the difference between civil and criminal actions. Survivors of Abuse NJ created these resources to bridge the knowledge gap that often prevents survivors from accessing justice and to ensure that they are fully informed about their legal rights under state law.
Civil claims for sexual abuse in Cherry Hill, NJ may involve individuals, institutions, or both, depending on the circumstances of the case. Schools, medical facilities, religious organizations, and youth programs are among the entities that may bear responsibility for failing to prevent or respond to abuse. Civil litigation in these cases examines whether organizations implemented appropriate oversight, complied with mandatory reporting requirements, and took reasonable steps to protect those under their care. Survivors of Abuse NJ assists clients in evaluating these factors and determining which legal avenues may apply.
Legislative reforms in New Jersey have significantly expanded the rights of sexual abuse survivors to seek justice. The New Jersey Child Victims Act (CVA), enacted in 2019, extended the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse claims and opened a two-year window allowing survivors of previously time-barred cases to file lawsuits. The law now permits survivors to file civil actions until age fifty-five or within seven years of recognizing the harm caused by the abuse. Survivors of Abuse NJ continues to educate survivors about these provisions, helping them understand the legal implications and deadlines involved in pursuing a civil claim.
The organization’s trauma-informed approach to legal representation prioritizes survivor autonomy, confidentiality, and respect throughout the process. Attorneys collaborate with mental health professionals, investigators, and advocacy organizations to ensure survivors are supported at every stage of their case. This multidisciplinary approach balances legal precision with compassion, acknowledging the emotional and psychological effects that survivors experience while navigating the legal system.
Survivors of Abuse NJ also engages in public education and community partnerships to promote awareness of survivor rights and available legal resources. The firm’s outreach efforts include seminars, written guides, and community collaborations designed to educate the public about recognizing abuse, understanding reporting obligations, and accessing justice. These initiatives aim to reduce stigma, encourage transparency, and promote institutional accountability throughout New Jersey.
Civil litigation for sexual abuse cases not only provides compensation for survivors but also promotes systemic change. Legal actions often lead to reforms in policies, reporting protocols, and training within organizations found to have failed in their duties of care. By pursuing these cases, survivors contribute to broader societal efforts to strengthen prevention measures and improve institutional accountability. Survivors of Abuse NJ’s work in this area reinforces the importance of both individual justice and collective reform.
Attorney Joseph L. Messa, Esq., brings decades of experience in complex civil litigation, including cases involving institutional misconduct and professional negligence. His leadership has guided the firm’s expansion of survivor-focused initiatives that combine education, advocacy, and legal representation. Under his direction, Survivors of Abuse NJ continues to serve as a resource for individuals seeking to understand their legal rights and to promote reforms that protect future generations.
Survivors of Abuse NJ remains dedicated to advancing awareness, accountability, and access to justice for sexual abuse survivors across the state. Through its expanded resources, educational programs, and civil advocacy, the organization continues to strengthen the systems designed to protect survivors and uphold their rights under New Jersey law.
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For more information, visit the Survivors of Abuse NJ website. To learn more about educational and legal resources for sexual abuse survivors, contact Survivors of Abuse NJ directly.
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For more information about Joseph L. Messa, Esq. - The Abuse Lawyer NJ, contact the company here:
Joseph L. Messa, Esq. - The Abuse Lawyer NJ
Joseph L. Messa, Esq.
(848) 290-7929
joe@survivorsofabusenj.com
2000 Academy Dr., Suite 200
Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054
