Georgia Medical Malpractice Statute Of Limitations
Last updated on December 3, 2025
Medical malpractice cases carry strict legal timelines, which means acting quickly is essential. When an injury occurs because a health care provider did not meet the required standard of care, the law sets limits on how long someone has to bring a claim. Those dealing with a medical malpractice issue in Moultrie, South Georgia, should reach out early to protect their rights.
With over 25 years of experience, attorney Robert D. Howell has been included in the Super Lawyers from 2016 to 2023 and holds an AV Preeminent peer-review rating through Martindale Hubbell. We also secured a 10 million dollar verdict in a medical malpractice case. We serve clients across a 100-mile radius from Moultrie, Georgia, including Thomasville, Atlanta, Albany, Tifton, Valdosta and Macon.
What Is The Statute Of Limitations For Medical Malpractice In Georgia?
Georgia OCGA Section 9-3-71 sets a two-year statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Georgia. This clock usually begins on the date of the injury.
The discovery rule medical malpractice exception applies when the injury was not immediately known.
What Is Georgia’s Statute Of Repose, And Why Does It Matter?
The Georgia medical malpractice statute of repose, as outlined in OCGA Section 9-3-73, bars claims after five years, even if the injury was discovered later. There are a few key exceptions.
Here are situations that may extend or adjust the deadlines:
- Foreign objects left in the body. OCGA Section 9-3-72 gives one year from discovery.
- Minors and legally incompetent individuals.
- Fraud concealment malpractice in Georgia.
- The continuous treatment doctrine in Georgia applies in limited situations.
Understanding these exceptions helps victims throughout Moultrie, South Georgia and the surrounding regions protect their claims.
Contact Us For A Free, Confidential Case Evaluation
If you need a Moultrie medical malpractice attorney, Howell Law Firm is ready to help clients across South Georgia pursue timely claims and protect their rights. To ask about co-counsel and referral arrangements for medical malpractice cases, call us at Howell Law Firm or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer-review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™ fall into two categories – legal ability and general ethical standards.