FirmTimerFirmTimerCalculate accurate filing deadlines for various causes of action in Maryland. This tool provides statute citations, legal notes, and important deadline information for your case.
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June 16, 2028
General 3-year statute of limitations for civil actions. Maryland’s courts apply the discovery rule to determine when the 3-year clock starts (for example, latent injuries accrue when the plaintiff discovers or should have discovered the injury).
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 | 3 years | Yes | — | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101 |
| Wrongful Death | 3 years | No | — | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 3-904(g) |
| Property Damage | 3 years | Yes | — | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101 |
| Written Contract | 3 years | No | — | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101 |
| Oral Contract | 3 years | No | — | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101 |
| Defamation | 1 year | No | — | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-105 |
| Medical Malpractice | 5 years | Yes | 5 years | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-109 |
| Consumer Debt | 3 years | No | — | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101 |
Common questions about Maryland statutes of limitations
The shortest deadline in Maryland is 1 years for defamation (libel/slander) claims, while the longest is 5 years for medical malpractice disputes. Missing these cut-offs—even by a day—can permanently bar recovery.
Note: Maryland 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 Maryland, 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 Maryland law, visit the official Maryland courts or legislature website.