What Is the Statute of Limitations for Legal Malpractice in District of Columbia?
In District of Columbia, the statute of limitations for legal malpractice is generally 3 years under D.C. Code § 12-301(8).
Legal malpractice Deadlines in District of Columbia
How long do you have to file a legal malpractice claim in District of Columbia?
In District of Columbia, the statute of limitations for legal malpractice is generally 3 years under D.C. Code § 12-301(8).
When does the clock start for legal malpractice in District of Columbia?
Three years, subject to the discovery rule.
Can the District of Columbia deadline for legal malpractice be extended?
The continuous representation doctrine can affect accrual. Because this rests on case law applying the catch-all, confirm before relying on it.
Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in District of Columbia?
Often, yes. Written notice to the Mayor within 6 months under D.C. Code § 12-309. Section 12-309 requires written notice to the Mayor of the District of Columbia within six months of the injury or damage before any action for unliquidated damages may be maintained against the District. A police report may satisfy the requirement in some cir…
How does District of Columbia compare to other states for legal malpractice?
District of Columbia's 3 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 18 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for legal malpractice ranges from 1 year to 6 years, and 2 years is the most common. Compare all states →
What Does Legal Malpractice Cover?
Situations that typically fall under the legal malpractice deadline in District of Columbia:
