1 statute of limitations | Definition of statute of limitations
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statute of limitations

noun phrase

Definition of statute of limitations

: a statute assigning a certain time after which rights cannot be enforced by legal action or offenses cannot be punished

First Known Use of statute of limitations

1641, in the meaning defined above

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More Definitions for statute of limitations

statute of limitations

noun

English Language Learners Definition of statute of limitations

law : a law that states the amount of time that must pass before a crime can no longer be punished or a right can no longer be given

statute of limitations

Legal Definition of statute of limitations

1a : a statute establishing a period of time from the accrual of a cause of action (as upon the occurrence or discovery of an injury) within which a right of action must be exercised — compare laches, statute of repose
b : a criminal statute establishing the period of time within which an offense can be punished after its commission
2 : a period of time established by a statute of limitations for commencing an action or prosecution
3 : an affirmative defense that the statute of limitations has expired

More from Merriam-Webster on statute of limitations

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about statute of limitations

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