Vermont Civil Statute of Limitations Laws
By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Garrett Monteagudo, Esq. | Last reviewed December 19, 2022
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Whether it's a malpractice lawsuit or a claim for collection of debt, every state enforces strict time limits for filing a civil action. These time limits are called statutes of limitations and differ for different types of legal actions. Generally, they are intended to ensure the integrity of physical evidence and witness testimony, while also removing the indefinite threat of a lawsuit (which could be used as blackmail in the absence of limits).
If you miss the deadline to bring your lawsuit within a prescribed time period, then the opposing party can assert the statute of limitations as a defense. The opposing party can file a motion to dismiss the case alleging that the time allowed by law to bring a suit has passed. Once the judge dismisses the case, your legal claim is lost forever.
This article provides a brief overview of the civil statute of limitations laws in Vermont.
Vermont Civil Statute of Limitations Laws
Below is a summary of civil statutes of limitations in Vermont.
Injury to Person |
Three years (V.S.A. Tit. 12 § 512(1)); except injury caused by skiing is one year (V.S.A. Tit. 12 § 513) |
|---|---|
Libel/Slander |
Three years (V.S.A. Tit. 12 § 512(3)) |
Fraud |
Six years (V.S.A. Tit. 12 § 511) |
Injury to Personal Property |
Three years (V.S.A. Tit. 12 § 512(5)) |
Professional Malpractice |
Three years from the incident or two from reasonable discovery (max. seven years) (V.S.A. Tit. 12 § 521) |
Trespass |
Three years (V.S.A. Tit. 12 § 512(5)) |
Collection of Rents |
|
Contracts |
|
Collection of Debt on Account |
|
Judgments |
Eight years (V.S.A. Tit. 12 § 506) |
Product Liability |
Three years (V.S.A. Tit. 12 § 512(4)) |
False Imprisonment |
Three years (V.S.A. Tit.12 § 512(2)) |
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.
Research the Law
- Official State Codes -- Links to the official online statutes (laws) in all 50 states and D.C.
- Time Limits to Bring a Case: The Statute of Limitations
- Lawsuits: A Practical Guide
Vermont Civil Statute of Limitations: Related Resources
Questions About Vermont Civil Statute of Limitations Laws? Ask a Lawyer
You don't want to miss out on filing your Vermont personal injury case because you didn't meet a deadline. The statute of limitations often depends on the nature of the claim being filed. To learn more, speak with an experienced litigation attorney in Vermont who will be able to help you meet your time limits.
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
Contact a qualified attorney.