statute of limitations

American  

noun

Law.

1. a statute defining the period within which legal action may be taken.

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statute of limitations British  

noun

1. a legislative enactment prescribing the period of time within which proceedings must be instituted to enforce a right or bring an action at law See also laches

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statute of limitations Cultural  

1. Any law that places a time restriction during which a lawsuit must be brought to court or a crime must be prosecuted.

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Etymology

Origin of statute of limitations

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

On Monday, a federal jury in California unanimously rejected Musk’s claims since the statute of limitations for bringing charges had expired.

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

The jury found Musk brought his lawsuit after the statute of limitations expired, clearing the way for an OpenAI IPO.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 18, 2026

It is common for an HOA to sue the developer as the 10-year statute of limitations nears, often for what developers consider minor or perceived issues.

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 2026

In some cases, fraud has a four-year statute of limitations.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

It was a proposal to extend the statute of limitations on environmental crimes.

From "A Deadly Wandering: A Mystery, a Landmark Investigation, and the Astonishing Science of Attention in the Digital Age" by Matt Richtel