What Is the Statute of Limitations for Defamation in Hawaii?
In Hawaii, the statute of limitations for defamation is generally 2 years under Haw. Rev. Stat. § 657-4.
Defamation Deadlines in Hawaii
How long do you have to file a defamation claim in Hawaii?
In Hawaii, the statute of limitations for defamation is generally 2 years under Haw. Rev. Stat. § 657-4.
When does the clock start for defamation in Hawaii?
Two years for libel or slander.
Can the Hawaii deadline for defamation be extended?
Confirm § 657-4 directly before publishing. Two years is more generous than the single year most states allow.
Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in Hawaii?
Often, yes. Generally 2 years; six-month county notice may apply under Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 662-4, 46-72. The State Tort Liability Act sets a two-year period in § 662-4. Section 46-72 requires written notice to a county within a short window — commonly reported as six months — for claims arising from county negligence, and § 657-1.5 provides that limitations of ac…
How does Hawaii compare to other states for defamation?
Hawaii's 2 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 48 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for defamation ranges from 1 year to 3 years, and 1 year is the most common. Compare all states →
What Does Defamation Cover?
Situations that typically fall under the defamation deadline in Hawaii:
