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

In California, the statute of limitations for assault and battery is generally 2 years under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1.

2 YEARS
Assault & Battery · California
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Assault and battery Deadlines in California

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

In California, the statute of limitations for assault and battery is generally 2 years under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1.

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

Assault and battery are named expressly in § 335.1 and share the two-year personal-injury period.

Can the California deadline for assault and battery be extended?

A parallel criminal prosecution does not pause the civil clock. Minority tolling applies.

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

Often, yes. Written claim generally presented within 6 months under Cal. Gov. Code § 911.2. Section 911.2(a) requires a claim for death, injury to person or personal property, or growing crops to be presented within six months of accrual; any other cause of action within one year. Suit generally cannot be filed until the claim is rejected or deemed r…

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

California's 2 years is in the middle of the range nationally. 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 California:

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 California

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