District of Columbia Civil Assault & Battery Statute of Limitations Calculator
Use this calculator to find your exact filing deadline for a civil assault & battery claim in District of Columbia. Enter your incident date and circumstances below for an instant result, including any tolling extensions that may apply to your situation.
Incident Details
Special Circumstances
DC Code § 12-301(4) sets a strict 1-year limitation for civil assault, battery, mayhem, and wounding — one of the shortest in the country. The clock runs from the date of the incident. This is significantly shorter than the 3-year general personal injury period and catches many plaintiffs off guard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the statute of limitations for civil assault and battery in Washington DC?
Under D.C. Code § 12-301(4), civil assault and battery claims in Washington DC must be filed within just 1 year from the date of the incident — one of the shortest deadlines in the country.
Why is DC's assault and battery limitation only 1 year?
DC Code § 12-301(4) groups intentional torts — assault, battery, false arrest, malicious prosecution — under a 1-year limitation because DC treats these as causes of action a plaintiff would immediately recognize, unlike latent injuries.
Does DC toll the 1-year civil assault limit for minors?
Yes. Minors injured in a civil assault or battery in DC have until age 21 — three years after reaching majority — to file a claim under DC's minor tolling rules.
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This tool is for informational and educational reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Statutes of limitations vary by jurisdiction and can be affected by tolling, government claim notice requirements, and other exceptions. Always consult a licensed attorney before making legal decisions.