Editorial
Limitation period
Also: statute of limitations · prescription
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.