What tips should I keep in mind?

Do not wait until the last minute -- courts are strict about deadlines. The discovery rule applies to hidden injuries (e.g., medical malpractice, toxic exposure). Minors typically have their statute tolled until they turn 18.

Statute of Limitations Calculator

Determine the filing deadline for your legal claim based on the type of case, state statute of limitations, and any tolling factors that may extend the deadline.

Claim Type(Type of legal claim)

State Statute of Limitations (years)(Check your state's specific time limit)

Date of Incident (days ago)(How many days ago did the incident occur?)

Discovery Rule Applies?(Clock starts when you discovered (or should have discovered) the harm)

Tolling Days(Days the clock was paused (e.g., minor status, defendant out of state))

Results

Visualization

How It Works

The statute of limitations is the legal deadline by which you must file a lawsuit. After this period expires, you generally lose the right to sue. Time limits vary by state and claim type. Certain factors (tolling) can pause or extend the deadline -- such as being a minor, the defendant fleeing the state, or the discovery rule.

The Formula

Days Remaining = (State Limit in Years x 365) - (Days Since Incident - Tolling Days)

Variables

State Limit — Number of years allowed by your state for the specific claim type
Days Since Incident — Calendar days from when the incident occurred (or was discovered)
Tolling Days — Days the clock was paused due to legal exceptions

Example

Personal injury in a 2-year state, occurred 365 days ago with no tolling: 730 - 365 = 365 days remaining (1 year). With 60 days tolling: 730 - 305 = 425 days remaining.

Tips

Do not wait until the last minute -- courts are strict about deadlines.
The discovery rule applies to hidden injuries (e.g., medical malpractice, toxic exposure).
Minors typically have their statute tolled until they turn 18.
Government claims often have shorter deadlines (sometimes 6 months).
Filing even one day late can result in permanent dismissal of your case.