Texas Civil Statute of Limitations Laws

 

The time limit for filing a civil suit or prosecuting a criminal case is called the "statute of limitations." In fact, states have several different statutes of limitations for different types of claims. When filing a civil case, it is important to note the statute of limitations for the claim you intend to file. If the statute of limitations has expired, you may not be able to pursue your claim in court -- even if you have a valid case.

In Texas, civil statute of limitations laws are anywhere from one to five years, depending on the severity of the claim. While Texas plaintiffs have one year in which to file a claim for defamation, the time limit is five years for sex crimes.

 

Injury to Person

2 yrs. Civ. Prac. & Rem. §16.003(a); 5 yrs. for sex crimes 16.0045

 

Libel/Slander

1 yr. Civ. Prac. & Rem. §16.002(a)

 

Fraud

4 yrs. Civ. Prac. & Rem. §16.004(a)(4)

 

Injury to Personal Property

2 yrs. Civ. Prac. & Rem. §16.003(a)

 

 Trespass

2 yrs. Civ. Prac. & Rem. §16.003(a)

 

Collection of Rents

-Contracts

Written: 4 yrs. real property Civ. Prac. §16.004(a)(3)

 

Collection of Debt on Account

4 yrs. Civ. Prac. & Rem. §16.004(a) (3)

 

 

Note: State laws are constantly changing -- contact Sherry D. Tavel  at 281-354-8156 or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.