What is the basic limitation period under the Limitations Act, 2002?

Under the Limitations Act, 2002, the basic limitation period for most civil claims in Ontario is indeed two years. This means that individuals have two years from the date they discovered the claim, or from when they ought to have discovered it, to initiate a lawsuit.

The rationale behind this two-year limitation is to ensure that claims are brought forward in a timely manner while evidence and witness recollections are still fresh. It provides a balance between allowing individuals adequate time to seek legal remedies and protecting defendants from indefinite liability.

This period applies to a wide range of legal actions including personal injury claims, contract disputes, and other civil matters. Understanding this timeframe is crucial for both legal practitioners and individuals considering pursuing a claim, as missing this deadline can result in the loss of the opportunity to seek redress through the courts.

While there are longer periods for certain types of claims or circumstances that may suspend the limitation period, the general rule is a two-year timeframe, making it essential for anyone involved in legal claims to be mindful of this limitation.