Home› State Guides› Washington› Assault & Battery

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

In Washington, the statute of limitations for assault and battery is generally 2 years under RCW 4.16.100(1).

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

Assault and battery Deadlines in Washington

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

In Washington, the statute of limitations for assault and battery is generally 2 years under RCW 4.16.100(1).

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

Two years — a year less than an ordinary negligence claim, because intentional torts are carved into the two-year section.

Can the Washington deadline for assault and battery be extended?

Pleading the same facts as negligence does not convert a two-year intentional tort into a three-year claim. A criminal prosecution does not pause the civil clock.

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

Often, yes. Tort claim form plus a 60-day waiting period under RCW 4.96.020, 4.92.100. Washington does not use a short notice deadline of the New York or New Jersey kind. Instead a standard tort claim form must be filed with the local government entity under RCW 4.96.020 (or with the Office of Risk Management for state claims under RCW 4.92.100)…

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

Washington'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 Washington:

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 Washington

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

Get Help in Washington

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

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