Maine Statute of Limitations (2026)
Civil filing deadlines in Maine under 14 M.R.S. § 752 — a six-year general period covering personal injury, contract and property alike, among the most claimant-friendly schemes in the country.
✓ Last verified: Sep 2026
Common Questions About Maine Deadlines
What is the statute of limitations in Maine?
It depends on the type of claim. Maine filing deadlines range from 2 years to 6 years — for example, personal injury 6 years, breach of a written contract 6 years, medical malpractice 3 years, defamation 2 years.
How long do you have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Maine?
6 years under 14 M.R.S. § 752. Six years from the date of the incident — Maine's general civil period, and among the most generous in the country. Full personal injury rules →
What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death in Maine?
3 years under 18-C M.R.S. § 2-807. Three years from the date of death, raised from two years in 2023. Full wrongful death rules →
What is the statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Maine?
3 years under 24 M.R.S. § 2902. Three years from the act or omission — half Maine's general six-year period. Full medical malpractice rules →
What is the statute of limitations for breach of contract in Maine?
6 years under 14 M.R.S. § 752. Six years from breach. Full breach of a written contract rules →
How long do you have to sue for defamation in Maine?
2 years under 14 M.R.S. § 753. Two years — the only significant carve-out from Maine's six-year general period. Full defamation rules →
What is the statute of limitations for property damage in Maine?
6 years under 14 M.R.S. § 752. Six years for property damage. Full property damage rules →
Do you have to notify the government before suing in Maine?
Often, yes. Notice within 180 days; suit within 2 years under 14 M.R.S. §§ 8107, 8110. This is usually much shorter than the ordinary deadline.