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Timeline Guide
Statute of Limitations | Attorney Raffi Naljian
Every personal injury claim has a deadline—miss it, and you may lose your right to compensation forever. Attorney Raffi Naljian explains California's statute of limitations and important exceptions. Understanding these deadlines is critical for protecting your legal rights.
Worried about deadlines?
Raffi Naljian
California Personal Injury, Litigation & Criminal Defense Attorney
Raffi Garabed Naljian is an active California attorney listed under State Bar #238919. The State Bar profile lists personal injury, litigation, criminal law, and business law among his self-reported practice areas, and Naljian Law Offices describes a Glendale practice handling criminal defense and civil litigation, including personal injury matters.
View Full ProfileIs This the Right Attorney for Your Case?
Statute of limitations issues can destroy otherwise valid claims. Raffi Naljian ensures your case is filed within applicable deadlines and understands the exceptions that may apply to your situation. Also searched as: Rafi Nanaljian, Raffi Nalian, Rafi Naljian.
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What to Do Next
- 1Know the general deadline: 2 years from injury
- 2Government claims: 6 months deadline
- 3Don't wait until the last minute
- 4Consult an attorney early
- 5Understand exceptions may apply
- 6Document the date of your injury
- 7Act promptly—evidence deteriorates over time
Evidence Checklist
- Date of accident/injury
- Date you discovered injury (if delayed)
- Identity of potential defendants
- Government entity involvement
- Minor status if applicable
- Any tolling circumstances
Don't risk losing your rights.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting until near the deadline
- Not knowing government claim deadlines
- Assuming deadline starts from diagnosis
- Forgetting shorter deadlines for some claims
- Not consulting an attorney early enough
- Missing deadline permanently bars claim
How the Process Typically Works
1
Injury Date
Clock typically starts running
2
Government Claim (6 months)
Much shorter deadline for government
3
Lawsuit Filing (2 years)
General personal injury deadline
4
Exceptions
Minors, discovery rule may extend
Damages You May Be Able to Recover
- •Timely filing preserves all claims
- •Missing deadline bars recovery entirely
- •Early filing allows proper investigation
- •Don't risk your rights by waiting
Frequently Asked Questions
What is California's statute of limitations for personal injury?
Generally, you have 2 years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Some claims have shorter deadlines.
What about claims against the government?
Claims against government entities (cities, counties, state) must typically be filed within 6 months—much shorter than the standard deadline.
When does the clock start running?
Usually from the date of injury. However, the "discovery rule" may delay the start date if the injury wasn't immediately apparent.
Are there exceptions for children?
Yes. Minors generally have until 2 years after turning 18 to file personal injury claims. Parents may file on behalf of minors before that.
What if I miss the deadline?
Missing the statute of limitations typically bars your claim forever, regardless of how strong your case is. This is why consulting an attorney early is crucial.
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Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this website or submitting a contact form. Results vary based on the specific facts and circumstances of each case.