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

In Maryland, the statute of limitations for assault and battery is generally 3 years under Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. §§ 5-101, 5-105.

3 YEARS
Assault & Battery · Maryland
3 Years (assault: 1 year)
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Assault and battery Deadlines in Maryland

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

In Maryland, the statute of limitations for assault and battery is generally 3 years under Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. §§ 5-101, 5-105. The full rule is: 3 Years (assault: 1 year).

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

Three years for battery, but only one year for assault — Maryland splits them, and the split is easy to get wrong.

Can the Maryland deadline for assault and battery be extended?

Battery was removed from the one-year section in 1989 because criminal cases frequently were not concluded within a year, making the short period impractical for crime victims. Many published summaries still list "assault and battery: 1 year." Confirm which tort is actually pleaded.

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

Often, yes. Notice within 1 year (LGTCA) or 1 year (MTCA) under Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-304; State Gov't § 12-106. The Local Government Tort Claims Act requires written notice to the local government within one year of the injury under Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-304. Claims against the State under the Maryland Tort Claims Act require submission to the Treasurer within one year…

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

Maryland's 3 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 Maryland:

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 Maryland

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