Can you sue a company for something that happened years ago?
Isabella Turner
Updated on January 19, 2026
Yes, there are definite time limits to file a lawsuit. It depends entirely upon the state you’re in (or federal law) and what the offense is. Some claims may expire as quickly as a year after the event in question took place. Other claims can be filed decades later (tax fraud, for instance).
Can an individual sue a company?
In California, you can sue a business for a maximum of $10,000 if you are an individual. If you are a business suing a business, you can sue for a maximum of $5,000. While you may be missing out on the full amount you are owed, there are practical benefits to suing in small claims instead of suing in “regular court.”
How do you start a lawsuit against a company?
Steps in a Civil Lawsuit: Doing It Yourself
- Determine who you are suing, as noted above.
- Then find the right jurisdiction.
- Create a demand letter explaining your case and exactly what you want (usually in money).
- Complete the court forms and register your claim with the court.
- Get a date on the court calendar.
Can I sue a company that has been sold?
ANSWER: There is a satisfaction of judgment dilemma when the suit is against a corporation that has been dissolved or sold. Generally, the purchaser of a corporation’s business or assets does not become liable for the transferor’s obligations simply by reason of the purchase.
Can you sue a doctor after 10 years?
Every medical malpractice case is subject to a statute of limitations – a period of time in which a plaintiff is allowed to file his or her claim in court. Depending upon the type of case and state where the lawsuit is being filed, this time limit can be as short as a year or two, or as long as ten years.
Can you sue a company with no assets?
If the debtor company has no assets in the company name, such as real estate or bank accounts, or if the company is out of business, suing the company and getting a judgment against them wont result in repayment of the debt.
Can you sue a company that went out of business?
If they haven’t filed for bankruptcy, then you can still sue the company, the problem is that if they are out of business they may not have any assets to use to satisfy your losses. Did you pay with a credit card? Call the number on your credit card statement about disputing charges. They will probably reverse the charge.
What to do if your business goes out of business?
A sole trader (someone who runs their own business) or partnership that stops trading is responsible for work or items that have been paid for. Call the company, visit their office or shop, or write to them to find out what’s happening.
Can a business be sued by a LLC?
An LLC exists separately from its individual members, thus protecting them from personal liability claims. In order to be an LLC, a business must file an application with the state registrar. Should you wish to dissolve the LLC, you will also need to contact that same office and file the necessary paperwork.
Can a CPA Sue Me After closing my business?
This would, for instance, protect a construction contractor should he later be accused of questionable work, or a CPA if the IRS attempted to penalize one of her customers because of a mistake made while preparing taxes. Depending on your errors and omissions policy, it still might cover you for a specified period after your company dissolves.