What Is the Statute of Limitations for Legal Malpractice in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for legal malpractice is generally 2 years under 42 Pa.C.S. §§ 5524, 5525.
Legal malpractice Deadlines in Pennsylvania
How long do you have to file a legal malpractice claim in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for legal malpractice is generally 2 years under 42 Pa.C.S. §§ 5524, 5525.
When does the clock start for legal malpractice in Pennsylvania?
Two years where pleaded as negligence under § 5524, or four years where pleaded as breach of the retainer contract under § 5525.
Can the Pennsylvania deadline for legal malpractice be extended?
Which period applies turns on how the claim is framed, and plaintiffs sometimes plead both. The occurrence rule generally starts the clock at the breach of duty rather than at discovery. Confirm before relying on either figure.
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 legal malpractice?
Pennsylvania's 2 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 18 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for legal malpractice ranges from 1 year to 6 years, and 2 years is the most common. Compare all states →
What Does Legal Malpractice Cover?
Situations that typically fall under the legal malpractice deadline in Pennsylvania:
