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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Assault And Battery in Iowa?

In Iowa, the statute of limitations for assault and battery is generally 2 years under Iowa Code § 614.1(2).

2 YEARS
Assault & Battery · Iowa
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Assault and battery Deadlines in Iowa

How long do you have to file a assault and battery claim in Iowa?

In Iowa, the statute of limitations for assault and battery is generally 2 years under Iowa Code § 614.1(2).

When does the clock start for assault and battery in Iowa?

Two years, under the general injuries-to-the-person subsection.

Can the Iowa deadline for assault and battery be extended?

A criminal prosecution does not pause the civil clock. Section 614.8A supplies a much longer period for damages from child sexual abuse.

Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in Iowa?

Often, yes. Generally 2 years; no short universal notice under Iowa Code §§ 670.5, 669.13. Iowa Code ch. 670 governs tort liability of governmental subdivisions, with § 670.5 setting a two-year period. Claims against the State run under ch. 669 with a two-year period in § 669.13 and a requirement to present the claim to the State Appeal Board first…

How does Iowa compare to other states for assault and battery?

Iowa's 2 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 49 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for assault and battery ranges from 1 year to 6 years, and 2 years is the most common. Compare all states →

What Does Assault & Battery Cover?

Situations that typically fall under the assault and battery deadline in Iowa:

01 Physical attacks causing injury
02 Intentional harmful or offensive contact
03 Threats that placed someone in fear of harm
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Other Filing Deadlines in Iowa

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