Key Takeaways:
- A statute of repose sets a hard deadline for filing certain legal claims, regardless of when the injury is discovered.
- It differs from a statute of limitations, which starts when the injury or damage is discovered.
- In Georgia, statutes of repose most often apply to product liability and construction defect cases.
- If you wait too long, your case could be permanently barred—even if you didn’t know about the injury.
- Hines Law helps clients act fast and protect their rights before time runs out.
What Is a Statute of Repose in Georgia?
A statute of repose is a strict legal time limit that permanently bars lawsuits after a certain period—regardless of when you discover the harm.
It is most commonly seen in:
- Product liability
- Construction defect
For example, in Georgia, you generally cannot file a product liability lawsuit more than 10 years after the product was first sold—even if you just recently got injured.
This is different from the statute of limitations, which may give you 2 years from the date of injury. A statute of repose could cut that time short—making it a dangerous legal trap for unsuspecting victims.
How a Statute of Repose Differs From a Statute of Limitations
While both are legal time limits, they are very different:
Legal Term: Statute of Limitations
When it Starts: From the date of injury or when it was discovered
Can it Be Extended?: Sometimes extended (e.g., for minors or delayed discovery)
Common Use: All personal injury cases
Legal Term: Statute of Repose
When it Starts: From the date of the act, not the injury
Can it Be Extended: Rarely extended, even if injury is discovered later
Common Use: Product liability, construction, medical malpractice
So even if a defective product hurts you today, if it was sold more than 10 years ago, you may not be able to sue—unless you act fast.
Examples of Statutes of Repose in Georgia
Here are a few specific Georgia laws that include a statute of repose:
- Product Liability Cases – 10 Years
If a product was sold more than 10 years ago, you cannot sue—even if it just caused your injury. - Construction Defects – 8 Years
You generally have 8 years after substantial completion of a property to sue for defective construction.
Why This Law Matters for Injury Victims
These deadlines are unforgiving. Many clients don’t even know about the statute of repose until it’s too late.
For instance:
- A defective airbag injures you—but the car is more than 10 years old.
- A house you bought has structural defects—but construction finished 9 years ago.
In all these cases, the statute of repose could block your claim—even if your injury is real and serious.
That’s why it’s critical to contact an attorney immediately after an accident or diagnosis.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
Unfortunately, courts in Georgia strictly enforce statutes of repose. If you file after the limit:
- Your case will be dismissed, even with strong evidence.
- There are almost no exceptions.
- You may lose the chance to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
This is why early legal help is essential. The clock may be ticking without you realizing it.
How Hines Law Can Help You Beat the Clock
At Hines Law, our job is to protect your rights and your timeline. We investigate your case immediately and:
- Determine if a statute of repose applies
- Gather evidence before deadlines hit
- File suit as fast as possible to preserve your right to compensation
Whether it’s a car accident, a defective product, or a construction injury, we know Georgia’s laws inside and out—and we’ll help you avoid legal roadblocks.
Our bilingual team is available 24/7 to serve both English and Spanish-speaking clients across metro Atlanta and North Georgia.
Let’s Talk—Free Consultations Available
If you’ve been hurt, don’t wait.
Every day counts. A statute of repose could be running out right now, and you may not even know it.
- Free, no-pressure consultations
- You don’t pay unless we win
- Offices in Atlanta, Dalton, Marietta, Jonesboro, Austell & Gainesville
Let us help you before the window closes.
FAQ – Statute of Repose in Georgia
Can I still sue if I just found out about my injury?
Maybe. If too much time has passed under Georgia’s statute of repose, your claim could be barred—even if you didn’t know right away. Contact us to check your deadline.
What if I was a minor when the injury occurred?
In some cases, the clock is paused for minors, but it depends. Ask us for a free case review.
How do I know if a statute of repose applies to my case?
That’s where we come in. Our team reviews your situation and gives you straight answers about your legal options.
Does the 10-year rule apply to all injury cases?
No, mostly to product liability and some construction claims. Car accident and slip-and-fall cases usually follow standard statutes of limitation.