Every jurisdiction in our dataset that gives 5 years to file a medical malpractice claim, with the governing statute.
Quick answer: 1 of 51 jurisdictions give 5 years for medical malpractice claims: Maryland.
Data last reviewed: October 2026. General information, not legal advice.
| State | Statute | Clock starts |
|---|---|---|
| Maryland | Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-109 | Date of act or discovery (whichever is earlier) |
1 of 51 jurisdictions: Maryland.
Other states allow 1 year, 2 years, 2.5 years, 3 years, 4 years. See the links on this page for each group.
Not always. Many states pause or extend the clock for minors, for harm that is discovered late, or when the defendant hides the wrong, and claims against governments often require earlier notice. Check your state's page for its exceptions.