Georgia Civil Statute of Limitations Laws
By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Garrett Monteagudo, Esq. | Last reviewed January 17, 2023
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Plaintiffs have time limits in which to file a civil claim, collectively called "statutes of limitations." The purpose of these laws is to ensure that claims are made while evidence is still relatively vital and to prevent the constant "threat" of a lawsuit long after the disputed event has occurred. Georgia civil statute of limitations laws impose a two-year time limit for personal injuries and fraud, with a four-year statute of limitations for trespassing, debt collection, and injuries to personal property.
This article provides a brief overview of Georgia's civil statute of limitations.
Georgia Civil Statute of Limitations: At a Glance
See the complete list of civil statutes of limitations laws in Georgia in the table below. FindLaw's Accidents and Injuries section contain an extensive collection of related articles and resources.
Injury to Person |
Two years (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33) |
---|---|
Libel/Slander |
One year (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33) |
Fraud |
Two years (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33) |
Injury to Personal Property |
Four years (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-32) |
Professional Malpractice |
Two years, max. of five years from the act (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-71) |
Trespass |
Four years (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-30) |
Collection of Rents |
- |
Contracts |
|
Collection of Debt on Account |
Four years (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-25) |
Judgments |
Five years foreign judgment (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-20) |
Note: 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 law(s) you are researching.
Georgia Civil Statute of Limitations Laws: Related Resources
- Time Limits to Bring a Case: The Statute of Limitations
- Lawsuits: A Practical Guide
- Time Limit Considerations in Medical Malpractice Claims
- Georgia Law
- Official State Codes -- Links to the official online statutes (laws) in all 50 states and D.C.
Get Professional Help With Your Civil Claim: Talk to an Attorney Today
Georgia, like most other states, has very strict time frames to file your initial claim in civil court. Whether you were involved in a car accident, slip and fall accident, or medical malpractice, you may want to seek the guidance of an experienced attorney. To learn more about your personal injury case or some other civil claim, consider meeting with an experienced Georgia litigation attorney today.
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
Contact a qualified attorney.