What Is the Statute of Limitations for Legal Malpractice in Iowa?
In Iowa, the statute of limitations for legal malpractice is generally 5 years under Iowa Code § 614.1(4).
Legal malpractice Deadlines in Iowa
How long do you have to file a legal malpractice claim in Iowa?
In Iowa, the statute of limitations for legal malpractice is generally 5 years under Iowa Code § 614.1(4).
When does the clock start for legal malpractice in Iowa?
Five years under the catch-all for "all other actions not otherwise provided for."
Can the Iowa deadline for legal malpractice be extended?
Section 614.1(9) is drafted around licensed health care providers specifically, which leaves attorney malpractice outside it. But a claim framed as injury to the person could be pulled into the two-year § 614.1(2). Confirm before relying on five years.
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 legal malpractice?
Iowa's 5 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 18 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for legal malpractice ranges from 1 year to 6 years, and 2 years is the most common. Compare all states →
What Does Legal Malpractice Cover?
Situations that typically fall under the legal malpractice deadline in Iowa:
