Alabama Statutes of Limitations

The statute of limitations is a time limit to file a civil complaint (for plaintiffs) or criminal charges (for prosecutors). Failing to file a claim within the statute of limitations is an absolute bar, meaning the court can’t hear your case if you miss the deadline.

If you have a lawsuit to file or are facing criminal charges, hire a lawyer today. Whether you need a personal injury attorney or a criminal defense lawyer, they can help you protect your rights.

Alabama’s Statutes of Limitations Laws

Under Alabama law, many civil actions have a two-year statute of limitations, such as:

• Personal injury cases
• Wrongful death
• Libel or slander
• Medical malpractice

Others have six- or 10-year statutes of limitations, such as:

• Assault and battery (tort) (six years)
• False imprisonment (six years)
• Simple contracts (six years)
• Written contracts (10 years)

Generally, prosecutors in the state of Alabama must file criminal charges within five years of the crime. But some crimes do not have a statute of limitations, such as:

• Capital offenses
• Violent felonies
• Counterfeiting
• Sex offenses involving minors under 16
• Drug trafficking

The general rule for misdemeanors is that prosecutors must file criminal charges within 12 months of an offense’s commission.

The statute of limitations generally begins running when the claim accrues. Accrual typically happens when a legal claim arises. For example, if the claim involved injuries resulting from a car accident, accrual likely started on the date of the injury.

The links below offer an overview of Alabama’s statute of limitations laws. This article also provides a list of related resources. For more specific information, contact a civil litigation attorney or a criminal defense lawyer.

Disclaimer: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state laws you are researching.

Questions About the Limitations Period? Contact an Attorney

Failing to file your claim within the applicable statute of limitations is a bar to pursuing your claim. Whether you have a civil cause of action like a personal injury claim or want to press criminal charges, you should contact an attorney today to ensure you know the applicable statute of limitations.

Contact an Alabama personal injury attorney for specific legal advice if you have a personal injury lawsuit. If you have any other type of civil claim, contact a civil litigation attorney or search for a specific type of attorney in FindLaw’s attorney directory.

If you have pending criminal charges, contact a criminal defense attorney. Their representation can help you understand the legal process and get the best possible result for your legal issue.