Arkansas Civil Statute of Limitations Laws

The civil statute of limitations is a set of statutory time limits for filing a lawsuit. The time limits typically range from one to three years for most civil causes of action. The clock generally begins to run when the alleged injury or other disputed event occurs.

Some exceptions and conditions apply. An individual unknowingly exposed to asbestos 20 years ago may just now discover the injury after receiving an asbestosis diagnosis. Per the discovery rule, the clock generally doesn't begin running until the injured person discovers the harm. This typically gives them ample time to file suit.

On the criminal side of the ledger, a defendant who is in hiding, out of the state, or is evading police may also toll or stop the statute of limitations from running. If you're facing charges, FindLaw's Arkansas Criminal Statutes of Limitations article can let you know how long the state has to file charges.

These time limits are important for a couple of reasons. First, they prevent potential plaintiffs from threatening someone with a lawsuit indefinitely. Also, they ensure greater integrity of the evidence and a more efficient case. The time limits tend to promote reliable witnesses and a speedier resolution of the dispute.

This article provides an overview of the civil statute of limitations laws in Arkansas.

Arkansas Civil Statute of Limitations: Summary

Several common civil causes of action have three-year limitation periods in Arkansas. These include personal injury claims, property damage, and libel claims. Depending on the type of claim, the time limit to file varies between one and 10 years.

The table provides access to Arkansas civil statute of limitations laws. Links to other relevant FindLaw Articles are also provided below.

Note: State laws often change through the enactment of newly passed legislation, through higher court decisions, and other means. Contact an Arkansas civil litigation attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the Arkansas law(s) you are researching.

Arkansas Statute of Limitations: Related Resources

Visit the links below for more information about Arkansas' statute of limitations laws and related topics:

• Arkansas Law
• Arkansas Criminal Law
• Arkansas Criminal Statute of Limitations Laws
• Arkansas Accident and Injury Laws
• Arkansas Employment Laws
• Arkansas Negligence Laws
• Arkansas Car Accident Compensation Laws
• Injury Law Basics
• Lawsuits: A Practical Guide
• Premises Liability FAQ
• Time Limits for Car Accident Claims: The Statute of Limitations
• Time Limits for Filing Product Liability Cases: State by State
• Time Limit Considerations in Medical Malpractice Cases
• What Is a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
• Wrongful Death Claims and the Discovery Rule

You can also visit FindLaw's State Statute of Limitations Laws article for a state-by-state overview of limitations periods.

Issues With Civil Statutes of Limitations? Get Legal Help From an Arkansas Attorney

Whether it's a personal injury case in Little Rock or a car accident in Fort Smith, knowing when to file your civil lawsuit is one of the first steps toward recovery from your injuries. If you are dealing with a personal injury lawsuit, contact an Arkansas personal injury attorney. Contact a civil litigation attorney for legal advice if you have another type of civil case.

An experienced attorney can provide specific legal advice and representation throughout your legal action. You can also contact an attorney in the state of Arkansas, many of whom offer free case evaluations, for more information about the period of time you have to file your case.