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

In Virginia, the statute of limitations for assault and battery is generally 2 years under Va. Code § 8.01-243(A).

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

Assault and battery Deadlines in Virginia

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

In Virginia, the statute of limitations for assault and battery is generally 2 years under Va. Code § 8.01-243(A).

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

Two years, under the general personal-injury period.

Can the Virginia deadline for assault and battery be extended?

A criminal prosecution does not pause the civil clock. Sexual abuse claims have their own much longer periods under subsections D and D1.

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

Often, yes. Written notice within 1 year (6 months for localities) under Va. Code §§ 8.01-195.6, 15.2-209. Under the Virginia Tort Claims Act, written notice of a claim against the Commonwealth must be filed within one year of accrual (§ 8.01-195.6). Claims against a city, town, or county require notice within six months under § 15.2-209. The two regimes are separa…

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

Virginia'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 Virginia:

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 Virginia

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