Limitation period
When the limitation period expires for debt, damages, employment, insurance, cheque and promissory note claims.
Why does limitation matter?
A time-barred claim does not vanish, but the action fails if the other side raises limitation. The general period is 10 years; 5 years for periodic claims such as rent, interest and wages; 2 years from knowledge for torts and unjust enrichment.
Filing suit, starting enforcement or acknowledgement by the debtor interrupts limitation and restarts the period. Where a tort is also a crime, a longer criminal limitation period applies.
FAQ
Is limitation the same as a forfeiture period?
No. Limitation must be raised by the other party; forfeiture periods are applied of the court's own motion and cannot be interrupted.
Does mediation stop limitation?
Yes. In mandatory mediation, limitation is suspended from application until the final report.
This tool is for general information and gives approximate results; it does not constitute legal advice. Updated:
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