Statute of limitations for civil rights — 42 u.s.c. § 1983 in California

Federal Section 1983 claims borrow the forum state's personal-injury limitations period. In California, that makes the practical filing window two years, although federal accrual rules decide when the constitutional claim starts running.

SoL period

2 years

From the date the cause of action accrues

Important: Section 1983 accrual is a federal-law question even though California supplies the limitations period.

Compute your deadline

Filing deadline

—

Where this rule comes from

Statute

Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1 (borrowed for § 1983)

"Within two years: injury to, or death of, an individual caused by wrongful act or neglect."

Read the full statute Last verified May 7, 2026 by Juryvine Editorial

Frequently asked

What is the statute of limitations for civil rights — 42 u.s.c. § 1983 in California?: 2 years from the date the cause of action accrues. Authority: Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1 (borrowed for § 1983).

Civil Rights — 42 U.S.C. § 1983 statute by state

Illinois 2 years New York 3 years Pennsylvania 2 years Texas 2 years

Other California statutes of limitations

Personal Injury 2 years Medical Malpractice 1 year Wrongful Death 2 years Breach of Written Contract 4 years Breach of Oral Contract 2 years Fraud 3 years Wrongful Termination 2 years Premises Liability 2 years

Not legal advice. Statutes of limitations are governed by complex doctrine with many exceptions. Use this page as a starting point and verify with an attorney before relying on any deadline. Juryvine is not a law firm and does not represent clients.