Statute of Limitations for Filing a Civil Lawsuit in the State of Virginia

Civil lawsuits are intended to settle disagreements between private parties. If one party purposely attempted to harm another, that is a matter for the criminal, not civil, court to decide. The statute of limitations for civil actions in Virginia depends upon the type of harm suffered.

Personal Injury

• A personal injury occurs when the negligence, carelessness or recklessness of one party causes verifiable injury to another. Common personal injuries that result in lawsuits include dog bites, car accidents, and slip and falls. The statute of limitations to file a personal injury civil suit in Virginia is two years from the date of injury.

Wrongful Death

• One of the most tragic kinds of personal injury is the wrongful death of a loved one. Civil law in Virginia allows one year from the date of death for the wronged party to bring the matter to court.

Libel and Slander

• Civil lawsuits also recognize that sometimes, bodily injury is not the only type that causes harm to an individual. Damaging the reputation of a professional is likewise eligible for redress in court. The statute of limitations to bring a civil libel or slander suit in Virginia is one year from the date of injury.