California Statute of Limitations – What to Know
Sometimes, when you are not familiar with the legal system, the California Statute of Limitations can be difficult to understand. But with some basic knowledge you may get some of the answers you are looking for. The California Statute of Limitations determines the amount of time a person has to file a legal claim. These laws are in place to ensure that cases are brought forward in a timely manner. Additionally to be sure that evidence and witness testimony is still fresh.
Why are the Statute of Limitations Important?
The statute of limitations is an important legal concept that its a time limit for filing a lawsuit or pressing criminal charges. This time limit will vary depending on the type of case and the jurisdiction in which it is filed. You can read more about the California statute of limitations and the time limits below. The purpose of the statute of limitations is to ensure that legal claims are brought forward in a timely manner. Especially while evidence is still fresh and witnesses are still available to testify. Additionally, it helps to prevent old, stale claim from resurfacing and clogging up the legal system.
The California statute of limitations serves as a way of protecting defendants from having to defend against long-past action or events. It also gives them a sense of finality and closure. Overall, the statute of limitation acts as a balance between the rights of the plaintiff and the defendant. Nonetheless, it is an important aspect of the legal system.
Personal Injury California Statute of Limitations
In California, the Statute of Limitations caries depending on the type of case. For example, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of injury. This means that if someone is injured in a car accident, they have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim for damages. But, the statute of limitations has exceptions to this rule. If you have been injured in a personal injury case, it is important to contact a Thousand Oaks personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. A good personal injury lawyer can help you understand the Statute of Limitations and help ensure your claim is filed in time.
Contract Cases Statute of Limitations
The Statute of Limitations for contract cases is generally four years. This means that if you someone wants to file a lawsuit for breach of contract, they have four years from the date of the breach to do so.
Criminal Cases Statute of Limitations
The Statute of Limitations for criminal cases will vary depending on the crime. For example, the Statute of Limitations for most felonies is three years, while the Statute of Limitations for some crimes, such as murder, is unlimited. Similar to personal injury cases, the statute of limitations for criminal cases has exceptions so it’s important to find a criminal lawyer that help you.
Exceptions to The California Statute of Limitations
It is important to note that there are always exceptions to the statute of limitations. For example, if the person being sued is out of state, the statute of limitations may be extended. Additionally, if a person is a minor at the time of the injury, the statute of limitations may not begin until they turn 18.
Can I Sue After the Statute of Limitations?
After the California statute of limitations runs out, it is too late to sue. But, there are situations where the statute of limitations may start later. Naturally this give you more time to sue.
For example, in you are a minor at the time of a car accident, the statute of limitation begin when the minor turn 18.
Additionally, there are a few situations where the statute of limitations is paused. For example, if the person who the case is being brought against has left the state, the statute of limitations may be paused.
Contact a Thousand Oaks Personal Injury Lawyer Today
If you have been injured in an accident it is important that you contact a Thousand Oaks personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. There are deadlines as to when you can file a claim. Vititoe Law Group can help you obtain the maximum compensationfor your injuries and damages. We have your best interest at heart and truly care about you and your recovery. We will focus on the claims while you focus on recovery.
OVER $1 BILLION RECOVERED IN PERSONAL INJURY CASES
Vititoe Law Group is a nationally recognized Law Firm, founded by James W. Vititoe, a Westlake Village Personal Injury Lawyer. Specializing in personal injury cases, car accidents, bus accidents, truck accidents and brain injury cases.
Over the past 30 years award winning attorney James W. Vititoe and his team of lawyers have been involved in cases resulting in settlements of over $1 Billion dollars.
James has a long track record as a consumer advocate and has been involved in numerous landmark legal cases.