New York Statutes of Limitations: Time Limits for Lawsuits
Legal cases can prove quite complex for a variety of reasons, which is why it's important to have skilled legal advocates on your side. That is where the lawyers of Worby Groner Edelman, LLP in White Plains come into play. We have achieved many successful results in personal injury litigation, obtaining just compensation for our clients.
In order to achieve legal success, it's important that lawsuits be filed within a designated time limit known as the statute of limitations. Let's go over the basics of statutes of limitations right now.
About Statutes of Limitations
The statute of limitations is a given timeframe during which a legal motion must be filed. The exact timeframe will vary based on the nature of your case, and they also vary from state to state. A lawsuit cannot be filed outside of the specified timeframe stipulated in the statute of limitaitons.
Why Statuettes of Limitations Are In Place
While this set time limit for filing a legal action seems like a major impediment to the justice system, it's actually a means of making sure the system works for as many people as possible.
By filing a lawsuit without the specified timeframe, this helps ensure that evidence remains sound. Time will not be able to degrade the quality of this evidence and affect the investigation process. In addition, the statute of limitations helps ensure that witness testimony remains unaffected by memory loss or lapses in memory.
Ultimately, the statute of limitations is in place for the benefit of all people involved in the legal process. It helps the system work for everyone and not just the chosen few.
The Statute of Limitations for Various Injuries Caused by Negligence
The following statutes of limitations exist for these common injury accident incidents:
- Personal Injury - 3 years from the date of the injury/accident
- Medical Malpractice - 2.5 years from the date of the injury/incident
- Product Liability - 3 years from the date of the injury/accident
- Wrongful Death - 2.5 years (30 months) from the date of the incident
The Statute of Limitations for Various Criminal Offenses
The following statutes of limitations are in place to address these other criminal actions:
- Assault and Battery - 1 year from the date of the incident
- Breach of Contract - 6 years from the date of the incident
- Fraud - 6 years from the date of the incident
- Manslaughter - 5 years from the date of the incident
- Libel and Slander - 1 year from the date of the incident
Note: There is no statute of limitations for cases of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, rape, and in certain cases kidnapping and arson.
Do Not Hesitate: File Your Legal Case as Soon as Possible
While there is some time to file a lawsuit, it is always best to file your suit as soon as possible. Hesitation can mean the difference between a successful legal outcome and missing your deadline to seek justice. Our lawyers will be here for you to help you in your time of legal need. You can count on us.
Learn More About Your Legal Options
For more information about your legal rights and legal options following a serious injury or accident, be sure to contact our personal injury lawyers today. The legal team here at Worby Groner Edelman, LLP will address all of your legal concerns in greater detail during a legal consultation.