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Editorial

Limitation period

Definition

The period within which proceedings must be brought, after which the claim is time-barred. The period and its starting point vary by cause of action, and may be postponed for disability, concealment or later knowledge.

In plain English: The deadline for starting a case. Miss it and you usually lose the right to bring the claim at all.

A general definition, not tied to any jurisdiction. Check the meaning in the system that governs your matter before relying on it.

Usage

A missed limitation date is rarely recoverable. Identify it at the first meeting, not at the first review.