Statute of Limitations in Michigan
State-specific overview · Contract Law
Michigan sets a three-year deadline for personal injury claims, with a discovery rule that can extend the timeline.
How Michigan treats Statute of Limitations
Most personal injury lawsuits in Michigan must be filed within three years of the injury or discovery of the injury. The discovery rule allows the clock to start when the plaintiff knew or reasonably should have known about the injury, which can extend the filing window. Medical malpractice claims follow the same three-year period but are subject to a two-year discovery rule cap. Contract disputes generally have a six-year limitation period.
The general definition of Statute of Limitations
A law setting the maximum time period within which a lawsuit can be filed after an injury or breach occurs.
Every type of legal claim has a deadline. Once that deadline passes, you lose the right to sue, even if you have a valid claim. The statute of limitations varies depending on the type of case—contract disputes might have a different deadline than personal injury claims, for example. These time limits exist to protect defendants from being sued years or decades after an event, when evidence may be lost and memories fade. Once the deadline expires, the claim is essentially dead, and courts will dismiss any lawsuit filed after that point.
Read the full Statute of Limitations entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Michigan.