Home› State Guides› Pennsylvania› Assault & Battery

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

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for assault and battery is generally 2 years under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5524(1).

2 YEARS
Assault & Battery · Pennsylvania
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Assault and battery Deadlines in Pennsylvania

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

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for assault and battery is generally 2 years under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5524(1).

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

Two years. Assault and battery are named in the two-year section rather than given a shorter intentional-tort window as in New York.

Can the Pennsylvania deadline for assault and battery be extended?

A criminal prosecution does not pause the civil clock. Section 5533 tolls for infancy.

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

Often, yes. Written notice within 6 months under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5522. Section 5522 requires written notice of intent to sue a government unit within six months of the date the injury was sustained. The notice must state the name and address of the claimant, the date, hour, and place of the injury, and the name and address of any…

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

Pennsylvania's 2 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 Pennsylvania:

01 Physical attacks causing injury
02 Intentional harmful or offensive contact
03 Threats that placed someone in fear of harm
Advertisement
Legal Forms

Other Filing Deadlines in Pennsylvania

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

Get Help in Pennsylvania

Fill out the form below and a legal resource in Pennsylvania may be able to assist with your situation.

* Required. Phone, text and email consent are optional.