Mississippi Statute of Limitations (2026)
Civil filing deadlines in Mississippi under Miss. Code ch. 15-1 — a three-year catch-all covering most claims, with intentional torts and defamation cut to one year.
✓ Last verified: Sep 2026
Common Questions About Mississippi Deadlines
What is the statute of limitations in Mississippi?
It depends on the type of claim. Mississippi filing deadlines range from 1 year to 3 years — for example, personal injury 3 years, medical malpractice 2 years, defamation 1 year.
How long do you have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Mississippi?
3 years under Miss. Code § 15-1-49. Three years under the catch-all, which is where most negligence claims land. Full personal injury rules →
What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death in Mississippi?
3 years under Miss. Code § 11-7-13. Three years, accruing on the date of death rather than the date of the underlying negligent act. Full wrongful death rules →
What is the statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Mississippi?
2 years under Miss. Code § 15-1-36. Two years from accrual or discovery, capped at no more than seven years from the date of the act or omission. Full medical malpractice rules →
How long do you have to sue for defamation in Mississippi?
1 year under Miss. Code § 15-1-35. One year — the shortest standard limitations period in Mississippi civil practice. Full defamation rules →
What is the statute of limitations for property damage in Mississippi?
3 years under Miss. Code § 15-1-49. Three years for property damage. Full property damage rules →
Do you have to notify the government before suing in Mississippi?
Often, yes. One year under the Tort Claims Act under Miss. Code § 11-46-11. This is usually much shorter than the ordinary deadline.