What Is the Statute of Limitations for Defamation in Maryland?
In Maryland, the statute of limitations for defamation is generally 1 year under Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-105.
Defamation Deadlines in Maryland
How long do you have to file a defamation claim in Maryland?
In Maryland, the statute of limitations for defamation is generally 1 year under Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-105.
When does the clock start for defamation in Maryland?
One year for libel or slander — a third of Maryland's general period.
Can the Maryland deadline for defamation be extended?
The Court of Appeals held in Higginbotham v. Public Service Commission that a defamation claim brought against the State under the Maryland Tort Claims Act gets the Act's three-year period rather than the one year in § 5-105 — but an individual defendant sued personally still gets only one year.
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 defamation?
Maryland's 1 year is among the shortest in the country. Across the 48 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for defamation ranges from 1 year to 3 years, and 1 year is the most common. Compare all states →
What Does Defamation Cover?
Situations that typically fall under the defamation deadline in Maryland:
