Hawaii Statute of Limitations (2026)
Civil filing deadlines in Hawaii under HRS ch. 657 — two years for damage to persons or property, against a six-year catch-all that swallows most everything else.
✓ Last verified: Sep 2026
Common Questions About Hawaii Deadlines
What is the statute of limitations in Hawaii?
It depends on the type of claim. Hawaii filing deadlines range from 2 years to 6 years — for example, personal injury 2 years, breach of a written contract 6 years, medical malpractice 2 years.
How long do you have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Hawaii?
2 years under Haw. Rev. Stat. § 657-7. Two years for damage to persons. Full personal injury rules →
What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death in Hawaii?
2 years under Haw. Rev. Stat. § 663-3. Two years from the date of death. Full wrongful death rules →
What is the statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Hawaii?
2 years under Haw. Rev. Stat. § 657-7.3. Two years from when the injury was or should have been discovered, but no more than six years from the act. Full medical malpractice rules →
What is the statute of limitations for breach of contract in Hawaii?
6 years under Haw. Rev. Stat. § 657-1(1). Six years from accrual. Full breach of a written contract rules →
What is the statute of limitations for property damage in Hawaii?
2 years under Haw. Rev. Stat. § 657-7. Two years for damage to property — but six years where the claim is for taking or detaining goods rather than damaging them. Full property damage rules →
Do you have to notify the government before suing in Hawaii?
Often, yes. Generally 2 years; six-month county notice may apply under Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 662-4, 46-72. This is usually much shorter than the ordinary deadline.