Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations is the maximum time allowed after an injury or harm during which a lawsuit may be filed. These deadlines exist to ensure evidence remains reliable and parties can investigate claims while memories and physical evidence are still accessible. Statutes vary significantly by claim type and jurisdiction. Auto accident claims in most states are 2-3 years. Medical malpractice claims often have 2-year limitations plus a discovery period. Product liability claims may extend years from the date of injury or discovery. Some claims have shorter periods (as short as 60-90 days for government entity claims requiring notice). For intake purposes, identifying the applicable limitations period is one of the first critical tasks because it sets the firm's operational timeline for investigation, filing, and resolution. Missing a limitations deadline is irreversible.