The statute of limitations, which is the amount of time that a plaintiff has to file a legal complaint against the party whose negligence hurt them, determines the time threshold for viable claims. The specific time limit varies by state. In Pennsylvania, patients have two years to file their legal complaint. However, the clock “starts” when the patient discovers that medical malpractice occurs. If the legal paperwork isn’t filed within the statute of limitations, the victim of medical malpractice may no longer be able to recover the compensation they are owed.