When do I file my lawsuit? Is there a deadline? How do I know when to file? These questions may be running through your head as you prepare to file a lawsuit. There is no black and white answer to any of them, but a personal injury attorney will help see you through.
There are deadlines within each state that determine when you must file your lawsuit. These deadlines, called statutes of limitations, are usually determined from the date your injury was sustained, or from the date you discovered a previously unknown injury. These statutes vary on a state-to-state basis, and tend to change depending on the type of case. Depending on factors such as age and disability, these may be extended, but generally, they are all hard deadlines. If you exceed the statute of limitations, you will not be able to pursue your case.
When you file a lawsuit, there are often other legal deadlines that come with specific circumstances. Government agencies require an agency notice within a short period of time if you plan to sue. Sometimes these deadlines can be as short as 30 days.
Once an injury is suffered or discovered, it is wise to contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Upon learning your case, your lawyer will calculate the statute of limitations and take action to preserve your right to sue.
If you feel you have a personal injury case, don’t hesitate. Contact John Bales Attorneys today at 800-225-5564.