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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Breach Of An Oral Contract in Maine?

In Maine, the statute of limitations for breach of an oral contract is generally 6 years under 14 M.R.S. § 752.

6 YEARS
Breach of Oral Contract · Maine
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Breach of an oral contract Deadlines in Maine

How long do you have to file a breach of an oral contract claim in Maine?

In Maine, the statute of limitations for breach of an oral contract is generally 6 years under 14 M.R.S. § 752.

When does the clock start for breach of an oral contract in Maine?

Six years — the same as a written contract.

Can the Maine deadline for breach of an oral contract be extended?

The statute of frauds may bar certain oral agreements outright regardless of timing.

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

Often, yes. Notice within 180 days; suit within 2 years under 14 M.R.S. §§ 8107, 8110. The Maine Tort Claims Act requires written notice to the governmental entity within 180 days of accrual under § 8107, and suit within two years under § 8110 — a third of the six years an ordinary Maine claimant gets. The Act also caps damages. A claim against…

How does Maine compare to other states for breach of an oral contract?

Maine's 6 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 44 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for breach of an oral contract ranges from 2 years to 10 years, and 3 years is the most common. Compare all states →

What Does Breach of Oral Contract Cover?

Situations that typically fall under the breach of an oral contract deadline in Maine:

01 Verbal service or handshake agreements
02 Informal lending or repayment promises
03 Unwritten partnership or business arrangements
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Other Filing Deadlines in Maine

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