What does the statute of limitations establish?

The statute of limitations establishes the maximum duration within which a legal action must be initiated. This legal concept is critical because it sets a deadline for plaintiffs to file their lawsuits, ensuring that cases are brought forward in a timely manner while evidence remains fresh and witnesses can still be located.

If a plaintiff fails to file within this specified time frame, they typically lose their right to seek a remedy through the courts, meaning the defendant would not have to defend against the claims after the expiration of the statute. This is essential for maintaining order in the judicial system and ensuring that cases are resolved with due diligence.

The other options focus on aspects that are not defined by the statute of limitations. While minimum requirements for filing a lawsuit can govern procedural matters, they don't relate to the timing constraints set by statutes of limitations. Legal fees may vary widely and are contingent on various factors, but they are not established by a statute of limitations. Jurisdictional limits pertain to the authority of a court to hear a case, which is independent of the time restrictions imposed by statutes of limitations.