FirmTimerFirmTimerCalculate accurate filing deadlines for various causes of action in Louisiana. This tool provides statute citations, legal notes, and important deadline information for your case.
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June 16, 2026
Delictual (tort) actions prescribe in 1 year from the day injury or damage is sustained. (Louisiana’s strict prescription means no general discovery rule except in cases of fraud or where contra non valentem applies in extraordinary circumstances.)
Last reviewed 6/9/2025
Firm Timer helps you track every minute of your workday, ensuring you never miss a billable hour again. Our intuitive time tracking software is designed for law firms, making it easy to capture time on the go.
| Cause of Action | Statute of Limitations | Discovery Rule | Statute of Repose | Legal Citation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Injury | 1 year | No | — | La. Civ. Code art. 3492 |
| Wrongful Death | 1 year | No | — | La. Civ. Code art. 3492 |
| Property Damage | 1 year | No | — | La. Civ. Code art. 3492 |
| Written Contract | 10 years | No | — | La. Civ. Code art. 3499 |
| Oral Contract | 10 years | No | — | La. Civ. Code art. 3499 |
| Defamation | 1 year | No | — | La. Civ. Code art. 3492 |
| Medical Malpractice | 1 year | Yes | 3 years | La. Rev. Stat. § 9:5628(A) |
| Consumer Debt | 3 years | No | — | La. Civ. Code art. 3494(4) |
Common questions about Louisiana statutes of limitations
The shortest deadline in Louisiana is 1 years for personal injury claims, while the longest is 10 years for oral contract disputes. Missing these cut-offs—even by a day—can permanently bar recovery.
Note: Louisiana also enforces statutes of repose, which create an absolute bar after a set number of years, regardless of when the injury is discovered. Our calculator flags these where applicable.
A statute of limitations sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. In Louisiana, these time limits vary by the type of claim or offense.
Missing a filing deadline can permanently bar your claim, regardless of its merit. This calculator helps you determine the deadline for your specific case, but always consult with a qualified attorney for legal advice.
For more information about Louisiana law, visit the official Louisiana courts or legislature website.