It is called the Statute of Limitations, and it applies in most cases, with the exception being murder, where there is no such statute. The case with Bill Cosby is a good example. Only one of his alleged victims could file suit because the statute had run on all of the other cases.
Alabama has a 2-year statute of limitations, which means you must initiate your case with the proper court within two years from the date of the act, insult or injury.
The statute of limitations is different for minor children. You have until two years after their 19th birthday to file a claim. In malpractice cases for minors, it may be four years in certain cases. When you are over a certain age, there is a different statute that applies.
Talk to an attorney to make sure you’re in the applicable statute because it falls like a guillotine, and there is no going back to file your claim.
Be careful who you hire because there are firms who will help you settle a case, but may not try a case in court, if necessary. Make sure you hire a firm that will go to court for you if that is what needs to be done.
You want to leave your attorney enough time to properly and fairly evaluate your claim. Be careful when entering into a contract with an attorney who declares up front that they are not going to fight for you.
Remember, the statute of limitations clock begins counting down on the date of the accident. From that date, you have two years to file a claim. Make sure you’re working with an attorney who is going to fight for you all the way to court, if necessary.
If you have legal questions, please consult our Online Legal Directory to find an attorney in your area.