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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Medical Malpractice in District of Columbia?

In District of Columbia, the statute of limitations for medical malpractice is generally 3 years under D.C. Code § 12-301(8).

3 YEARS
Medical Malpractice · District of Columbia
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Medical malpractice Deadlines in District of Columbia

How long do you have to file a medical malpractice claim in District of Columbia?

In District of Columbia, the statute of limitations for medical malpractice is generally 3 years under D.C. Code § 12-301(8).

When does the clock start for medical malpractice in District of Columbia?

Three years, running from discovery of the injury, its cause, and some evidence of wrongdoing.

Can the District of Columbia deadline for medical malpractice be extended?

DC requires 90 days' written notice of intent to file before suing a healthcare provider under D.C. Code § 16-2802. The three-year period is more generous than most states give medical malpractice.

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 medical malpractice?

District of Columbia's 3 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 District of Columbia:

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 District of Columbia

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