<P> Statutes of limitations are laws passed by legislative bodies in common law systems to set the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated . </P> <P> When the period of time specified in a statute of limitations passes, a claim might no longer be filed, or, if filed, may be liable to be struck out if the defense against that claim is, or includes, that the claim is time - barred as having been filed after the statutory limitations period . When a statute of limitations expires in a criminal case, the courts no longer have jurisdiction . Most crimes that have statutes of limitations are distinguished from serious crimes as these may be brought at any time . </P> <P> In civil law systems, similar provisions are typically part of their civil or criminal codes and known collectively as periods of prescription . The cause of action dictates the statute of limitations, which can be reduced (or extended) to ensure a fair trial . The intention of these laws is to facilitate resolution within a "reasonable" length of time . What period of time is considered "reasonable" varies from country to country, and within countries such as the United States from state to state . Within countries and states, the statute of limitations may vary from one civil or criminal action to another . Some nations have no statute of limitations whatsoever . </P> <P> Analysis of a statute of limitations also requires the examination of any associated statute of repose, tolling provisions, and exclusions . </P>

What is the purpose of a statute of limitations