Statutes of Limitation: How Long Do You Have to File Suit?
The Basics There are definite deadlines for filing a lawsuit. Statutes of limitation are laws that set forth time limits for filing a lawsuit. These laws differ state to state and depend on the type of claim asserted in the lawsuit. Courts have said the purpose of statutes of limitations are to 1) promote stability in personal and business relationships, 2) give notice to defendants of potential lawsuits, 3) prevent undue delay in filing lawsuits, 4) avoid the uncertainties and burdens inherent in pursuing and defending stale claims, and 5) ensure that evidence is preserved and facts are not obscured by the lapse of time or the defective memory or death of a witness. See, Redwing v. Catholic Bishop for Diocese of Memphis, 363 S.W.3d 436, 456 (Tenn. 2012). Knowing the time limit for filing suit is important whether you intend to pursue a claim or are faced with defending a lawsuit. In […]
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