Last week we discussed the basics you should know about Florida’s statute of limitations law. Today, we’re going to review the standard statute of limitations associated with specific matters that often result in civil litigation.
1. Written and verbal contracts
Some of the most common civil actions arise out of breach of contract claims. If your business has sustained financial or other damages as a result of a matter involving a written contract, the standard statute of limitations period is five (5) years. If the matter involves an oral/verbal contract or agreement, the SOL period is only four (4) years.
2. Slander, libel and/or defamation
I often say, “It takes your whole life to develop your word and your reputation. It takes a second to lose it.”
When it comes to building a business, the last thing you need is for someone to defame or slander you or your business to your current or potential customers. If you’re a victim of slander, libel or defamation, you may have sustained damages to your personal and professional reputations, in addition to substantial monetary damages. In order to legally recover those damages, you must file a civil action in Florida courts within two (2) years of the incident or injury.
3. Fraudulent actions of another
Unfortunately, in this economy incidents of fraud continue to rise. Although you cannot control the actions of another, you can do your very best to protect your own interests. If you’ve suffered financial, physical or emotional damages due to the fraudulent actions of another person or entity, you have four (4) years from the date you were injured to seek legal remedy for your losses.
4. Professional and medical malpractice
Because we’re all humans, there is no shortage of injuries arising from professional or medical malpractice. You have only two (2) years to file a civil action seeking recovery for incidents of malpractice. If you fail to file a civil action within the time allotted, assuming there are no other legal exceptions applicable to your situation, you will be unable to recover damages or any other legal remedies.
The statute of limitations period is rarely set in stone and can be contingent on other factors. It is in your best interests to consult an experienced Florida attorney sooner rather than later to discuss which statute of limitations period is applicable to your claim. The most disheartening news for any injured person is to learn they cannot recover from injuries and damages they sustained due to the negligence or wrongful conduct of another person or entity.
So, if you believe you or your business is a victim of any wrongdoing, contact the attorneys of Schecter Law today to discuss which Florida statute of limitations is applicable to your case, and how you should move forward to protect your interests and your right to legal remedies.
