California Personal Injury Lawyers Blog
What’s the Deadline to File a Roundup Lawsuit? (Statutes of Limitation Explained)
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after using Roundup, you are likely facing immense physical, emotional, and financial burdens. While considering a lawsuit, one of the most urgent factors to understand is the legal deadline to file your claim. Missing this deadline, known as the statute of limitations, can permanently bar you from seeking the compensation you deserve.
At Walch Law, we know that time is critical. This guide explains the deadlines for Roundup lawsuits in plain English. Our consultations are always free and confidential, and you pay nothing unless we secure a financial recovery for you. Call now to speak with firm partners Robert and Gary Walch.
State Deadlines Vary, but All Are Strict
Every state sets its own statute of limitations for personal injury claims. These deadlines can range anywhere from one to six years. In California, the general deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the injury. For wrongful death claims, the timeline may be different. Because these rules are so strict, it is vital to have your specific situation reviewed by an attorney immediately.
The “Discovery Rule” Is Key in Roundup Cases
For many Roundup victims, the most important timing rule is the “discovery rule.” Since diseases like non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma can take years to develop after exposure, the two-year clock does not necessarily start on the last day you used the weedkiller. Instead, the statute of limitations often begins on the date you were diagnosed, or the date you reasonably should have known that your cancer was linked to your Roundup exposure.
Determining when the clock started ticking is a fact-specific legal analysis. It depends on your exposure history, your diagnosis date, and when you became aware of the connection between Roundup and your illness. This is why you cannot rely on a general timeline; your case requires a personalized review.
Special Scenarios Can Change the Timeline
Several other factors can alter the standard deadline:
- Claims Against Government Entities: If your exposure occurred while working for a public agency (like a city parks department), you may be subject to the California Tort Claims Act. This requires filing a formal claim within six months of the injury, a much shorter and stricter deadline.
- Claims for Minors: Different rules often apply when the injured person is a minor, which can extend the time to file.
- MDL and Settlements: The existence of a federal Multi-District Litigation (MDL) or a large settlement program does not automatically pause or extend your individual statute of limitations. You must still act to protect your personal deadline.
Do Not Wait—Protect Your Rights Now
The single biggest mistake you can make is waiting too long to explore your legal options. You should not assume that a class action will cover you or that you have plenty of time. To protect your rights, you must act now. Start by gathering your medical records and any proof of your Roundup purchases or use. Most importantly, find the best California Roundup lawyers for you and your family who can analyze your specific timeline and advise you on the correct deadline for your potential claim.
We Are Here to Provide Clear Answers- Experienced California Roundup Lawyers
The legal deadlines for Roundup claims are complex and unforgiving. Let our family at Walch Law give you the clear, straightforward answers you need. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to review your case and ensure your right to seek justice is protected.