FirmTimerFirmTimerCalculate accurate filing deadlines for various causes of action in Massachusetts. This tool provides statute citations, legal notes, and important deadline information for your case.
Statute may be tolled until age of majority
Statute may be tolled due to disability
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June 16, 2028
3-year statute for personal injuries. The clock starts at injury or when the plaintiff learns of the injury (discovery rule). If the injured person is a minor, the statute is tolled until age 18.
Last reviewed 6/9/2025
Firm Timer helps you track every minute of your workday, ensuring you never miss a billable hour again. Our intuitive time tracking software is designed for law firms, making it easy to capture time on the go.
| Cause of Action | Statute of Limitations | Discovery Rule | Statute of Repose | Legal Citation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Injury | 3 years | Yes | — | Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 260, § 2A |
| Wrongful Death | 3 years | Yes | — | Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 229, § 2 |
| Property Damage | 3 years | Yes | — | Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 260, § 2A |
| Written Contract | 6 years | No | — | Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 260, § 2 |
| Oral Contract | 6 years | No | — | Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 260, § 2 |
| Defamation | 3 years | No | — | Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 260, § 4 |
| Medical Malpractice | 3 years | Yes | 7 years | Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 260, § 4 |
| Consumer Debt | 6 years | No | — | Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 260, § 2 |
Common questions about Massachusetts statutes of limitations
The shortest deadline in Massachusetts is 3 years for personal injury claims, while the longest is 6 years for consumer debt disputes. Missing these cut-offs—even by a day—can permanently bar recovery.
Note: Massachusetts also enforces statutes of repose, which create an absolute bar after a set number of years, regardless of when the injury is discovered. Our calculator flags these where applicable.
A statute of limitations sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. In Massachusetts, these time limits vary by the type of claim or offense.
Missing a filing deadline can permanently bar your claim, regardless of its merit. This calculator helps you determine the deadline for your specific case, but always consult with a qualified attorney for legal advice.
For more information about Massachusetts law, visit the official Massachusetts courts or legislature website.