ND · Health & Medical

Health & Medical in North Dakota

By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026

Key North Dakota Law

North Dakota Century Code Section 28-01-18(3)

North Dakota requires medical malpractice claims to be filed within two years of the negligent act or discovery under N.D.C.C. § 28-01-18(3), with a six-year absolute repose period.

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Procedural Details in North Dakota

North Dakota does not cap non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases. North Dakota does not require a formal certificate of merit at filing, but expert testimony is required at trial. North Dakota applies modified comparative fault (50% bar) under N.D.C.C. § 32-03.2-02. The North Dakota Board of Medicine investigates complaints. North Dakota has a specific fraud exception to the repose period. Government facility claims may require notice under N.D.C.C. § 32-12.2-04.

North Dakota Agencies & Resources

North Dakota Board of Medicine

Licenses and disciplines physicians in North Dakota; investigates professional conduct complaints.

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North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services

Oversees hospital licensing and patient safety in North Dakota.

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North Dakota Insurance Department

Regulates health insurance and handles consumer complaints in North Dakota.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the statute of limitations for medical malpractice in North Dakota?

N.D.C.C. § 28-01-18(3) provides two years from the negligent act or discovery, with a six-year absolute repose period. There is no pre-filing certificate of merit requirement, but expert testimony will be necessary at trial.

Does North Dakota cap non-economic damages in malpractice?

North Dakota does not have a statutory cap on non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases. Juries determine appropriate compensation for pain, suffering, and other non-economic harm.

Does North Dakota require a certificate of merit before filing?

North Dakota does not require a formal certificate of merit as a condition of filing a malpractice complaint. You will, however, need a qualified medical expert to testify at trial about the standard of care and how the defendant deviated from it.

How do I file a complaint against a doctor in North Dakota?

Complaints against physicians may be submitted to the North Dakota Board of Medicine at ndbom.org. The Board investigates professional conduct and may impose conditions, suspend, or revoke a physician's license. Board proceedings are separate from civil litigation.

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By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026