The Limitation Act of 1908 in Pakistan establishes the time limits within which legal actions must be initiated in civil and criminal matters. It sets specific deadlines for filing lawsuits, appeals, and claims, aiming to ensure legal proceedings are conducted in a timely manner. The Act is designed to prevent undue delays in seeking justice, promote efficiency in the legal process, and provide certainty to both parties involved in disputes.
Under the Limitation Act, different types of cases have varying time limits, depending on the nature of the claim. For example, property disputes, contract breaches, and personal injury claims each have distinct timeframes within which a lawsuit must be filed. If a party fails to bring their case within the specified period, their claim may be barred, and the courts are generally unable to hear the case unless specific exceptions apply.
The Act includes provisions for extending the limitation period under certain circumstances, such as if the plaintiff was a minor, mentally incapacitated, or if there was fraud or concealment involved. Despite being enacted during British colonial rule, the Limitation Act 1908 remains in force in Pakistan, with occasional amendments to keep it aligned with contemporary legal practices. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that legal claims are pursued with diligence and without unnecessary delays.