Practice Area
Claims Against Mississippi Governmental Entities
The Mississippi Tort Claims Act governs injury claims against state and local government. Strict notice requirements and short deadlines make prompt legal consultation essential.
Suing the Government in Mississippi
The Mississippi Tort Claims Act (MTCA), Miss. Code Ann. § 11-46-1 et seq., is the exclusive remedy for tort claims against the State of Mississippi and its political subdivisions — including cities, counties, school districts, and state agencies. The MTCA waives sovereign immunity in limited circumstances but imposes significant procedural requirements and caps on damages. Most importantly, it requires written notice to the governmental entity within one year of the injury — a deadline that, if missed, bars the claim entirely. If you have been injured by the negligence of a government employee or on government property, the clock is running.
What These Cases Involve
Notice Requirements
The MTCA requires written notice to the appropriate governmental entity within one year of the injury. The notice must include specific information. Failure to comply bars the claim.
Government Vehicle Accidents
Accidents caused by government employees operating government vehicles — police cars, school buses, public works trucks — may give rise to MTCA claims.
Dangerous Government Property
Injuries caused by dangerous conditions on government-owned property — roads, sidewalks, public buildings, parks — may be actionable under the MTCA.
Damage Caps and Exemptions
The MTCA caps damages at $500,000 per occurrence and exempts certain governmental functions from liability. We evaluate whether the cap and exemptions apply to your specific situation.
The One-Year Notice Deadline Is Absolute
Unlike the general three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, the MTCA's one-year notice requirement is strictly enforced. Courts have dismissed otherwise valid claims because the plaintiff missed this deadline by days. If you believe a government entity may be responsible for your injuries, contact us immediately.