What Is the Statute of Limitations for Legal Malpractice in Washington?
In Washington, the statute of limitations for legal malpractice is generally 3 years under RCW 4.16.080(2).
Legal malpractice Deadlines in Washington
How long do you have to file a legal malpractice claim in Washington?
In Washington, the statute of limitations for legal malpractice is generally 3 years under RCW 4.16.080(2).
When does the clock start for legal malpractice in Washington?
Three years, generally running from when the client discovered or should have discovered the injury.
Can the Washington deadline for legal malpractice be extended?
Washington applies a discovery rule to legal malpractice through case law, and the continuous representation doctrine can affect accrual. Because this rests on the catch-all rather than a dedicated statute, confirm before relying on it.
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 legal malpractice?
Washington's 3 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 Washington:
