Maryland Statute of Limitations
Time limits for filing civil lawsuits in Maryland. The statute of limitations varies by claim type. Once the deadline passes, you generally cannot file suit.
Data last updated: Apr 16, 2026Key Takeaways
- Written Contracts: 3 years (Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101).
- Oral Contracts: 3 years (Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101).
- Personal Injury: 3 years (Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101).
- Property Damage: 3 years (Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101).
Maryland Statute of Limitations by Claim Type
| Claim Type | Time Limit | Statute | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written Contracts | 3 years | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101 | Accrues on the date of breach. |
| Oral Contracts | 3 years | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101 | Same period as written contracts. |
| Personal Injury | 3 years | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101 | Accrues on the date of injury. Discovery rule applies. |
| Property Damage | 3 years | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101 | Accrues when damage occurs. |
| Medical Malpractice | 3 years | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-109 | 3 years from the date of discovery, with a 5-year statute of repose from the date of the act. |
| Debt Collection | 3 years | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101 | 3 years for all debt types. |
| Fraud | 3 years | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101 | 3 years from discovery of the fraud. |
General Notes for Maryland
Maryland applies a uniform 3-year statute of limitations for most civil claims. The discovery rule is well-established in Maryland and applies broadly to personal injury, medical malpractice, and fraud claims. A 5-year statute of repose applies to medical malpractice.
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the general statute of limitations in Maryland?
Maryland has a general 3-year statute of limitations that applies to most civil claims, including contracts, personal injury, and debt collection.
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Does Maryland apply the discovery rule?
Yes. Maryland broadly applies the discovery rule, meaning the statute does not begin to run until the plaintiff discovers or should have discovered the injury.
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What is the statute of repose for medical malpractice in Maryland?
Maryland has a 5-year statute of repose from the date of the act, meaning no claim may be filed more than 5 years after the act regardless of when the injury is discovered.