2025 Session Last amended: 2015 session

§ 541.05 — Various Cases, Six Years

Plain-Language Summary

Most lawsuits in Minnesota must be filed within 6 years. This includes breach of contract, fraud, trespass, personal property damage, and injuries from domestic abuse. Product liability claims based on strict liability must be filed within 4 years.

Practical Notes
When this applies: When deciding how long you have to file a lawsuit in Minnesota. Who this affects: Anyone who wants to bring a civil lawsuit in Minnesota, including contract disputes, property damage, fraud, and personal injury claims involving domestic abuse. Key points: The general deadline is 6 years for most civil claims, including breach of contract, trespass on real estate, and taking or damaging personal property. For fraud, the 6-year clock does not start until the victim discovers the fraud. Strict product liability claims have a shorter 4-year deadline. Other statutes may set different, shorter deadlines for specific types of claims (see section 541.07). The Uniform Commercial Code may also set different deadlines for certain sales and commercial disputes.