Michigan § 600.5801 - Limitation on actions; time periods; defendant claiming title under deed, court-ordered sale, tax deed, or will; other cases.

Full text of Michigan Michigan Compiled Laws § 600.5801 — Limitation on actions; time periods; defendant claiming title under deed, court-ordered sale, tax deed, or will; other cases., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 600.5801. Limitation on actions; time periods; defendant claiming title under deed, court-ordered sale, tax deed, or will; other cases.

Sec. 5801.

No person may bring or maintain any action for the recovery or possession of any lands or make any entry upon any lands unless, after the claim or right to make the entry first accrued to himself or to someone through whom he claims, he commences the action or makes the entry within the periods of time prescribed by this section.

(1)

When the defendant claims title to the land in question by or through some deed made upon the sale of the premises by an executor, administrator, guardian, or testamentary trustee; or by a sheriff or other proper ministerial officer under the order, judgment, process, or decree of a court or legal tribunal of competent jurisdiction within this state, or by a sheriff upon a mortgage foreclosure sale the period of limitation is 5 years.

(2)

When the defendant claims title under some deed made by an officer of this state or of the United States who is authorized to make deeds upon the sale of lands for taxes assessed and levied within this state the period of limitation is 10 years.

(3)

When the defendant claims title through a devise in any will, the period of limitation is 15 years after the probate of the will in this state.

(4)

In all other cases under this section, the period of limitation is 15 years.

Source: official Michigan text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan § 600.5801

What does Michigan Compiled Laws § 600.5801 cover?

Section 600.5801 ("Limitation on actions; time periods; defendant claiming title under deed, court-ordered sale, tax deed, or will; other cases.") is part of the Michigan Compiled Laws, the codified statutory law of Michigan. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Michigan § 600.5801?

A common citation format is "Michigan Compiled Laws § 600.5801" (Michigan). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Michigan law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Michigan official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Michigan attorney.

How does Michigan § 600.5801 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Michigan can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Michigan.