Michigan statutes of limitations are governed by the Revised Judicature Act. With courts in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and beyond, the state has carved out unique rules — particularly the 3-year personal injury window, which is more generous than most neighboring states.
Michigan Statute of Limitations — Quick Reference
| Case Type | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Personal Injury | 3 years |
| Medical Malpractice | 2 years |
| Written Contracts | 6 years |
| Oral Contracts | 6 years |
| Property Damage | 3 years |
| Defamation (Libel/Slander) | 1 year |
| Fraud | 6 years |
| Wrongful Death | 3 years |
Detailed Breakdown by Case Type
Personal Injury
Personal injury claims in Michigan have a 3-year window from the date of injury — more generous than the 2-year deadline in many states.
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice has a 2-year limit from discovery, with a 6-year absolute statute of repose for most cases.
Written Contracts
Both written and oral contracts share a 6-year window in Michigan.
Oral Contracts
Oral contracts get the same 6-year protection as written agreements.
Property Damage
Property damage claims have a 3-year window from the date of damage.
Defamation (Libel/Slander)
Defamation claims have a strict 1-year deadline from publication.
Fraud
Fraud claims have a 6-year deadline, applied with a discovery rule.
Wrongful Death
Wrongful death actions must be filed within 3 years of the death.
⏸️ Michigan Tolling & Exceptions
Michigan tolling provisions include: minority (until age 18, with an additional year after); mental incompetence; the defendant being absent from the state; and the discovery rule for medical malpractice and fraud cases.
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