FirmTimerFirmTimerCalculate accurate filing deadlines for various causes of action in Virginia. 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, 2027
Virginia requires personal injury actions to be filed within two years from the date of injury. There is no general discovery rule for personal injury (the two-year clock typically starts when the injury occurs). If the injured person is a minor or legally incapacitated at accrual, the statute is tolled until the disability ends (except medical malpractice has its own rules).
Last reviewed 6/10/2025
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 | 2 years | No | — | Va. Code Ann. § 8.01-243(A) |
| Wrongful Death | 2 years | No | — | Va. Code Ann. § 8.01-244(B) |
| Property Damage | 5 years | No | — | Va. Code Ann. § 8.01-243(B) |
| Written Contract | 5 years | No | — | Va. Code Ann. § 8.01-246(2) |
| Oral Contract | 3 years | No | — | Va. Code Ann. § 8.01-246(4) |
| Defamation | 1 year | No | — | Va. Code Ann. § 8.01-247.1 |
| Medical Malpractice | 2 years | Yes | 10 years | Va. Code Ann. § 8.01-243(C); § 8.01-249(7) |
| Consumer Debt | 5 years | No | — | Va. Code Ann. § 8.01-246(2) |
Common questions about Virginia statutes of limitations
The shortest deadline in Virginia is 1 years for defamation (libel/slander) claims, while the longest is 5 years for consumer debt disputes. Missing these cut-offs—even by a day—can permanently bar recovery.
Note: Virginia 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 Virginia, 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 Virginia law, visit the official Virginia courts or legislature website.