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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Medical Malpractice in Arizona?

In Arizona, the statute of limitations for medical malpractice is generally 2 years under A.R.S. § 12-542(1).

2 YEARS
Medical Malpractice · Arizona
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Medical malpractice Deadlines in Arizona

How long do you have to file a medical malpractice claim in Arizona?

In Arizona, the statute of limitations for medical malpractice is generally 2 years under A.R.S. § 12-542(1).

When does the clock start for medical malpractice in Arizona?

Two years, on the same clock as ordinary personal injury. Arizona names medical malpractice expressly in the general two-year section rather than giving it a dedicated statute.

Can the Arizona deadline for medical malpractice be extended?

Arizona applies a discovery rule through case law. A preliminary expert opinion affidavit is required under A.R.S. § 12-2603. Unlike most states, Arizona has no statute of repose for medical malpractice.

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

Often, yes. Notice of claim within 180 days; suit within 1 year under A.R.S. §§ 12-821.01, 12-821. Section 12-821.01 requires a notice of claim to be filed with the public entity or employee within 180 days after the cause of action accrues, and the notice must state a specific amount for which the claim can be settled. Section 12-821 then cuts the filing p…

How does Arizona compare to other states for medical malpractice?

Arizona's 2 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 51 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for medical malpractice ranges from 1 year to 4 years, and 2 years is the most common. Compare all states →

What Does Medical Malpractice Cover?

Situations that typically fall under the medical malpractice deadline in Arizona:

01 Surgical errors and wrong-site surgery
02 Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
03 Medication errors and dosage mistakes
04 Birth injuries to mother or child
05 Anesthesia errors
06 Hospital-acquired infections from negligence
07 Failure to monitor or treat properly
08 Premature discharge causing harm
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Other Filing Deadlines in Arizona

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