Actions for slander, libel or for publication of matter violating the right of privacy, shall be commenced within one year next after the cause of action accrued.
13-201.Defamation - Privacy.
Article XIII. Limitations · Part 2. Personal Actions · Not amended since adoption on record · Last verified July 20, 2026
In one sentenceSets a one-year deadline for defamation and privacy claims in Illinois, covering slander, libel, and publication of matter that violates a person's right of privacy.
Full Text of 735 ILCS 5/13-201
Plain-English Summary
This is the shortest general limitations period in the Illinois Code of Civil Procedure. A person harmed by slander, libel, or a publication that violates the right of privacy has one year from the date the claim accrues to file suit.
That short window reflects how these claims work: the harm to reputation or privacy is usually obvious the moment the statement or publication reaches an audience, so the law doesn't build in a long runway for the injured person to notice the harm before the clock starts.
Because the period runs from accrual rather than from discovery, a plaintiff who doesn't learn about a defamatory statement right away can still lose the right to sue if a year passes. Other sections in this Part, including the tolling rules for minors and people under legal disability, can extend that deadline in specific circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a defamation lawsuit in Illinois?
One year after the cause of action accrues, whether the claim is for slander, libel, or publication of matter violating the right of privacy.
Does the one-year period for defamation start when I find out about the statement?
No. The text ties the deadline to accrual of the cause of action, not to when the plaintiff discovers the statement.
What claims does this one-year deadline cover?
Actions for slander, libel, or publication of matter violating the right of privacy.
Is one year longer or shorter than Illinois's other general limitations periods?
Shorter. Illinois also sets 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year general periods for other kinds of claims in this Part.
Can the one-year defamation deadline be extended for a minor?
Yes. Section 13-211 gives a minor or a person under legal disability 2 years after turning 18 or after the disability is removed to sue.
Amendment History
(Source: P.A. 82-280.)
Source & verification. Section text and amendment history are
reproduced verbatim from the Illinois Compiled Statutes, published by the
Illinois Compiled Statutes, Illinois General Assembly / Legislative Reference Bureau. Last verified July 20, 2026.
· Official source
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