South Carolina Statutes of Limitations

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By Olivia Wathne, J.D. | Legally reviewed by FindLaw Staff | Last reviewed March 18, 2025

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In almost any legal action, a general rule establishes the amount of time to file a case. State statute of limitations laws define this timeframe. These limitations say that people have a certain period to file civil lawsuits. They also ban prosecutors from pursuing legal action (charges) for a crime after a specified amount of time has passed.

But unlike in many states, South Carolina law does not have a statute of limitations on criminal cases. This means prosecutors in South Carolina can file criminal charges at any time after a person commits a crime. This article will discuss more about the Palmetto State’s statutes of limitations.

Get Legal Advice on South Carolina’s Statutes of Limitations Laws

If you’re considering legal action in South Carolina, it’s important to understand the statutes of limitations that apply to your case. These laws set limitations periods for filing civil cases. These timeframes depend on the type of claim. Scheduling an initial consultation with a South Carolina personal injury attorney can help you navigate these deadlines. During a case evaluation, an attorney can clarify how the discovery rule and other exceptions apply to your situation. This will ensure that you meet all necessary filing deadlines.

Learn About Carolina Statutes of Limitations

South Carolina Crimninal Statute of Limitations Laws

Unlike most states, South Carolina has no limitations period for its criminal charges. This means there is no statute of limitations on prosecuting crimes in the state. Criminal charges can come at any time. This means prosecutors don’t have to worry about tolling or a specific timeframe expiring. South Carolina Criminal Statute of Limitations Laws article offers more background on criminal statutes of limitations and how South Carolina differs from other states.

South Carolina Civil Statute of Limitations Laws

South Carolina Civil Statute of Limitations Laws article offers an overview of South Carolina’s main civil statutes of limitations. This includes the three-year statute of limitations for a personal injury lawsuit. It also covers car accidents, medical malpractice, and wrongful death. The filing deadline for these types of civil actions depends on when the cause of action arises. This means the clock starts when the injury happens. Under the discovery rule, this is when the injured party becomes aware of the injury. The article also addresses specific time limits for cases under the South Carolina Tort Claims Act.

Whether you’re dealing with personal injury, wrongful death, or false imprisonment, understanding the civil statutes of limitations is crucial to preserving your right to pursue legal action.