Understanding Washington’s Statute of Limitations: Don’t Wait Too Long to File

When a legal dispute arises, whether from an accident, a broken contract, or a false statement—time immediately becomes a critical factor. Washington law sets strict time limits, known as statutes of limitations, that determine how long a person has to file a lawsuit. Missing that deadline can completely bar your claim, no matter how strong your evidence may be.

What Is a Statute of Limitations?

A statute of limitations is the legally prescribed period within which a lawsuit must be filed. Once that time expires, courts will generally refuse to hear the case. These deadlines are designed to promote fairness by ensuring that claims are brought while evidence is fresh and witnesses’ memories are reliable.

However, the exact time limit depends on the type of claim. For example, most personal injury

and property damage cases in Washington must be filed within three years of the incident. Defamation claims, such as libel or slander, must be brought within two years. If you’re suing over a written contract, you typically have six years to file, while oral contract disputes usually have a three-year limit.

Other areas have their own specific deadlines. Medical malpractice actions must generally be filed within three years of the negligent act or within one year of discovering the injury, whichever occurs later. Wrongful death lawsuits must be filed within three years of the date of death, and consumer protection claims have a four-year limit.

Because each category carries its own rules—and some exceptions—the only way to be certain about your filing deadline is to consult with an attorney as soon as you suspect a claim exists.

Exceptions and Special Circumstances

In some cases, Washington law allows these time limits to be paused or “tolled.” The most common examples include when the injured person is a minor, mentally incapacitated, or when the defendant leaves the state. There’s also something called the “discovery rule,” which delays the start of the time limit until the injury or wrongdoing is discovered—or should have been discovered through reasonable diligence.

These exceptions can make a significant difference in whether your case is still valid. That’s why waiting to take action can be risky, even if you believe you still have plenty of time.

Take Action Before It’s Too Late

Once a statute of limitations expires, courts rarely grant extensions. If you believe you’ve been wronged, it’s important to speak with a lawyer right away. An experienced attorney can evaluate your case, identify the applicable deadlines, preserve key evidence, and ensure your claim is filed on time.

At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we help clients across Washington protect their rights in personal injury, contract, defamation, and other civil matters. Our team understands how quickly these deadlines can pass and works diligently to keep your case on track from the very beginning.