Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in California

statute of limitations on past-owed bills

For bills that are past due what is the statute of limitations for collections agencies collecting on them?

Back in 12/2000 I wrote a check to an optometrist and just rcvd word from a collection agency that the check did not clear and i needed to pay $195 or face civil/criminal actions for a fraudulent check. I moved shortly after 12/2000 and switched bank accounts so I don't recall every getting anything stating the check was bad and I had no intent of writing a bad check. I would like to know from a legal standpoint if I am still obligated and if those civil/criminal actions could still be taken after 4 years?


Asked on 1/05/05, 11:44 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Larry Rothman Larry Rothman & Associates

Re: statute of limitations on past-owed bills

The statute of limitations is 4 years on a written contrract and 2 years on an oral contract. If you fax the documents to 714 363 0229, with your phone number, we can tell you if you have a case.

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Answered on 1/06/05, 7:25 pm
Jonathan Stein Law Offices of Jonathan G. Stein

Re: statute of limitations on past-owed bills

The general statute of limitations is four years. However, you need to determine the value of resolving this versus the value of having to go to court or having something show up on your credit. If you do not want the hassle, you may want to make an offer. You may also want to contact your prior bank and see if they can provide you information on the check.

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Answered on 1/05/05, 3:39 pm


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