Statutes of Limitation Many people who call us are concerned about Statutes of Limitation, both civil and criminal. Every state has different rules, and we can only advise clients about the laws in Massachusetts. If you are from another state, please call us, and we will try to refer you to a lawyer who can answer your questions. A statute of limitations is a law which puts a limit on the time within which you may exercise a legal right, usually the time for prosecuting a crime, or bringing a civil lawsuit. In general, the civil statute of limitations is three (3) years, but there are exceptions, and in some cases, written notice must also be given within two years. Because so many abuse victims are youngsters when the acts occur, they either repress the memory of the abuse, or they find some way of not thinking about it, because it is unpleasant, frightening or has moral overtones. As a result, many victims don't begin to realize how they have been harmed by abuse until they are adults. Some start to make these connections in therapy. Others have an overwhelming, and seemingly irrational, sense of fear about the safety of their children. By the time this all gets sorted out, the general statute of limitations has often run out. Fortunately, a rule of law, called the "discovery rule," has developed in Massachusetts which has the effect of extending the civil statute of limitations for such situations. Whether it will apply in any particular case can be a complicated question and can only be answered after a careful analysis of the facts. We are always willing to discuss a statute of limitations' issue, without charge for the consultation. If we accept a claim, it is on a contingent fee basis - you do not pay for our services unless your claim is successful. Please feel free to contact us at 1-800-287-9123 to discuss your concerns.