Alabama Statute of Limitations (2026)
Civil filing deadlines in Alabama under Ala. Code tit. 6, ch. 2 — two years for general personal injury, but six years for assault and battery, which is the reverse of almost every other state.
✓ Last verified: Sep 2026
Common Questions About Alabama Deadlines
What is the statute of limitations in Alabama?
It depends on the type of claim. Alabama filing deadlines range from 2 years to 6 years — for example, personal injury 2 years, breach of a written contract 6 years, medical malpractice 2 years, defamation 2 years.
How long do you have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Alabama?
2 years under Ala. Code § 6-2-38(l). Two years under the catch-all in subsection (l). Full personal injury rules →
What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death in Alabama?
2 years under Ala. Code § 6-2-38(a). Two years from the death. Full wrongful death rules →
What is the statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Alabama?
2 years under Ala. Code § 6-5-482(a). Two years from the act or omission. Where the claim could not reasonably have been discovered in that period, six months from discovery — whichever is earlier. Full medical malpractice rules →
What is the statute of limitations for breach of contract in Alabama?
6 years under Ala. Code § 6-2-34. Six years from breach on a written contract. Full breach of a written contract rules →
How long do you have to sue for defamation in Alabama?
2 years under Ala. Code § 6-2-38(k). Two years for libel or slander. Full defamation rules →
What is the statute of limitations for property damage in Alabama?
6 years under Ala. Code § 6-2-34(2). Six years — three times the two years Alabama gives personal injury, so one accident yields two very different deadlines. Full property damage rules →
Do you have to notify the government before suing in Alabama?
Often, yes. Sworn claim to a municipality within 6 months under Ala. Code §§ 11-47-23, 11-47-192. This is usually much shorter than the ordinary deadline.