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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Breach Of An Oral Contract in District of Columbia?

In District of Columbia, the statute of limitations for breach of an oral contract is generally 3 years under D.C. Code § 12-301(7).

3 YEARS
Breach of Oral Contract · District of Columbia
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Breach of an oral contract Deadlines in District of Columbia

How long do you have to file a breach of an oral contract claim in District of Columbia?

In District of Columbia, the statute of limitations for breach of an oral contract is generally 3 years under D.C. Code § 12-301(7).

When does the clock start for breach of an oral contract in District of Columbia?

Three years — the same as a written contract.

Can the District of Columbia deadline for breach of an oral contract be extended?

The statute of frauds may bar certain oral agreements outright regardless of timing.

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 breach of an oral contract?

District of Columbia's 3 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 44 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for breach of an oral contract ranges from 2 years to 10 years, and 3 years is the most common. Compare all states →

What Does Breach of Oral Contract Cover?

Situations that typically fall under the breach of an oral contract deadline in District of Columbia:

01 Verbal service or handshake agreements
02 Informal lending or repayment promises
03 Unwritten partnership or business arrangements
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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 breach of an oral contract across all states.
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