Law of Limitation: Essential Training for Legal Professionals

Course Description

This intensive 5-day course provides a comprehensive exploration of the Law of Limitation, focusing on its principles, practical applications, and strategic importance in legal practice. Participants will gain in-depth knowledge of limitation periods, their calculations, and exceptions, while developing skills to effectively manage cases within statutory time limits.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the fundamental principles and rationale behind the Law of Limitation
• Master the calculation of limitation periods for various types of legal actions
• Identify and apply relevant exceptions and extensions to limitation periods
• Develop strategies for effective case management within statutory time limits
• Analyze recent case law and legislative changes affecting limitation periods

Course Modules

Day 1: Introduction to the Law of Limitation

• Historical background and rationale
• Key legislation and statutory framework
• General principles and concepts
• Importance in civil and criminal proceedings

Day 2: Calculating Limitation Periods

• Commencement and expiry of limitation periods
• Specific limitation periods for different types of actions
• Continuing breaches and recurring causes of action
• Practical exercises in limitation period calculation

Day 3: Exceptions and Extensions

• Statutory exceptions to limitation periods
• Judicial discretion in extending time limits
• Disability and incapacity considerations
• Fraud, concealment, and mistake

Day 4: Strategic Case Management

• Pre-action protocols and limitation considerations
• Drafting pleadings with limitation in mind
• Limitation period defenses and counterclaims
• Settlement negotiations and time-bar issues

Day 5: Recent Developments and Special Topics

• Analysis of recent case law
• Legislative reforms and their impact
• Limitation in specific practice areas (e.g., personal injury, contract law)
• International perspectives on limitation

Practical Wins for Participants

• Ability to confidently assess and calculate applicable limitation periods
• Enhanced skills in managing cases to avoid time-bar issues
• Improved drafting of pleadings and defenses related to limitation
• Strategic advantage in negotiations and dispute resolution