statute of limitations

noun phrase

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

Examples of statute of limitations in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Other charges could not have been filed against Carr because the statute of limitations had already run out, Sinnett said. Louis Casiano, FOXNews.com, 14 Mar. 2026 Judge Carrie Hamilton found Hastings’ original lawsuit was filed beyond the statute of limitations for claims including defamation and civil conspiracy. Olivia Stevens, Chicago Tribune, 13 Mar. 2026 For many of the fraud cases that occurred during the pandemic, the statute of limitations has already passed or is nearly passed. William Melhado, Sacbee.com, 6 Mar. 2026 There is no statute of limitations for any unresolved homicide. Angie Dimichele, Sun Sentinel, 6 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for statute of limitations

Word History

First Known Use

1641, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of statute of limitations was in 1641

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Statute of limitations.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/statute%20of%20limitations. Accessed 18 Mar. 2026.

Legal Definition

statute of limitations

1
a
: 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

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