What is a statute of limitations?
It is a law that sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. After the deadline passes, the claim is barred — courts will dismiss it even if you have a strong case. The clock typically starts when you suffered the harm or discovered it.
Can the statute of limitations be extended?
Yes, under certain circumstances: if the defendant concealed the wrongdoing (fraudulent concealment), if you were a minor or legally incapacitated when the claim arose, or if you discovered the harm significantly after it occurred (discovery rule). These tolling doctrines vary by state.
What if I file just before the deadline?
Filing the complaint (not just sending a demand letter) stops the statute of limitations. Filing must be done in the correct court with the correct filing fee. A lawsuit is commenced when the court stamps your complaint — not when you mail it.