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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Assault And Battery in Alabama?

In Alabama, the statute of limitations for assault and battery is generally 6 years under Ala. Code § 6-2-34(1).

6 YEARS
Assault & Battery · Alabama
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Assault and battery Deadlines in Alabama

How long do you have to file a assault and battery claim in Alabama?

In Alabama, the statute of limitations for assault and battery is generally 6 years under Ala. Code § 6-2-34(1).

When does the clock start for assault and battery in Alabama?

Six years — Alabama gives assault and battery THREE TIMES the window it gives ordinary negligence, which is the reverse of almost every other state.

Can the Alabama deadline for assault and battery be extended?

Most states carve intentional torts into a shorter period. Alabama does the opposite, treating them as "trespass to person or liberty" under the six-year section. Anyone assuming the two-year personal-injury rule applies here is leaving four years on the table.

Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in Alabama?

Often, yes. Sworn claim to a municipality within 6 months under Ala. Code §§ 11-47-23, 11-47-192. Alabama requires claims against a municipality to be presented within six months of accrual under § 11-47-23, and personal injury claims within six months under § 11-47-192. Counties have their own presentment rules. These sit on top of the ordinary limitation…

How does Alabama compare to other states for assault and battery?

Alabama's 6 years is among the longest in the country. Across the 49 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for assault and battery ranges from 1 year to 6 years, and 2 years is the most common. Compare all states →

What Does Assault & Battery Cover?

Situations that typically fall under the assault and battery deadline in Alabama:

01 Physical attacks causing injury
02 Intentional harmful or offensive contact
03 Threats that placed someone in fear of harm
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Other Filing Deadlines in Alabama

Statutes of limitations have exceptions, and courts apply them to specific facts. This page states the general rule. A licensed Alabama attorney can tell you the deadline that applies to your situation.
See every filing deadline in Alabama, or compare assault and battery across all states.
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