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Statute Of Limitations
A statute of limitations is a legal time limit for starting a lawsuit, after which the court can refuse to hear the case.
What it actually is
It is a law that sets a maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings must be brought. The specific time period varies by state and by the type of claim, so it is not a fixed number that applies everywhere.
Why it matters in your case
If you miss the deadline, the other side can ask the court to dismiss the case before the facts are even considered, and the judge may grant that dismissal. Knowing whether the time limit has passed can determine whether you have a viable claim or defense at all.
The common misunderstanding
People often think it means the case must be finished within that time, but it only means the lawsuit must be filed by that deadline. Another common mistake is assuming the clock starts only when the problem begins, but the start date can depend on when the injury was discovered or other circumstances.
Get the actual rule
Definitions are orientation; rules are authority
This page explains the concept. When it matters to your case, read the rule that governs it in your court — we hold Texas, federal and Washington court rules word for word, and every state's official resources are on the state pages. If someone cites a case at you, check that it exists first.
Related
Terms that travel with this one
General explanation, not legal advice, and not specific to any state — procedures and deadlines vary by jurisdiction and court. If you can get a lawyer or free legal aid, do: every real option.