When the defendant dies, the statute of limitations is tolled by how much time?

When the defendant dies, the statute of limitations is tolled by how much time?

• A. 6 months
• B. 18 months
• C. 2 years
• D. 3 years

Answer: (B)

Tolling a statute of limitations means the clock stops because something outside the plaintiff’s control is happening. When the defendant dies, the time to sue is paused, giving the plaintiff extra time to proceed. In this scenario, the clock is stopped for 18 months due to the defendant’s death, so the plaintiff effectively gains an 18-month extension before the limit resumes running. This specific 18-month tolling period is what makes that option the best fit, rather than shorter or longer durations.

Tolling a statute of limitations means the clock stops because something outside the plaintiff’s control is happening. When the defendant dies, the time to sue is paused, giving the plaintiff extra time to proceed. In this scenario, the clock is stopped for 18 months due to the defendant’s death, so the plaintiff effectively gains an 18-month extension before the limit resumes running. This specific 18-month tolling period is what makes that option the best fit, rather than shorter or longer durations.