This is a most important legal concept and it is CRITICAL that you understand what the term means. Simply stated, the statute of limitations defines the time-period during which a victim is legally entitled to file a lawsuit. Once the time-period established by the applicable statute of limitations expires, an injured individual is forever prohibited from seeking redress. Particular periods of limitation vary from state to state. In Pennsylvania, personal injury and medical malpractice suits must be filed within two years of the date of incident or from discovery of the wrong. Minors are provided more time as explained below. Individuals must act promptly to pursue their rights. Even if you have waited a long time, it is probably worth a phone call to counsel to determine if you may still have a viable claim.