California has some of the most heavily litigated courts in the country, and its statutes of limitations reflect the volume and complexity of cases the state handles. Whether you're considering a personal injury claim from a Los Angeles car accident or a contract dispute in San Francisco, knowing your filing deadline is essential — California courts strictly enforce these time limits.
California Statute of Limitations — Quick Reference
| Case Type | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Personal Injury | 2 years |
| Medical Malpractice | 3 years (or 1 year from discovery) |
| Written Contracts | 4 years |
| Oral Contracts | 2 years |
| Property Damage | 3 years |
| Defamation (Libel/Slander) | 1 year |
| Fraud | 3 years |
| Wrongful Death | 2 years |
Detailed Breakdown by Case Type
Personal Injury
California gives you 2 years from the date of injury to file most personal injury claims, including those arising from car accidents, slip-and-falls, dog bites, and assault. The clock generally starts on the date the injury occurred. Note that claims against government entities require a separate administrative claim filed within 6 months.
Medical Malpractice
California uses a hybrid rule: you have 3 years from the date of injury OR 1 year from the date you discovered (or should have discovered) the injury — whichever comes first. For minors under 6, the deadline extends until their 8th birthday.
Written Contracts
Breach of written contract claims must be filed within 4 years of the breach. This includes most business agreements, leases, and signed promissory notes.
Oral Contracts
Verbal agreements have a much shorter window — only 2 years from the breach. Always get agreements in writing when possible.
Property Damage
Damage to real or personal property must be litigated within 3 years from the date the damage occurred or was discovered.
Defamation (Libel/Slander)
California has one of the shortest defamation windows in the country. You have just 1 year from the date the statement was published or made.
Fraud
Fraud claims must be brought within 3 years of the discovery of facts constituting the fraud — not necessarily when it occurred.
Wrongful Death
Surviving family members have 2 years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
⏸️ California Tolling & Exceptions
California recognizes several tolling provisions: claims by minors are tolled until they turn 18 (with some exceptions); claims against persons who leave the state may be tolled during their absence; and the discovery rule applies in many fraud and malpractice cases.
Calculate Your Exact Filing Deadline
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