Prescription Period
/ˌprɛskɹɪpʃən ˈpɪɹɪəd/
Definitions
- (n.) The legally defined timeframe within which a claimant must initiate legal proceedings or enforce a right before it is barred.
The plaintiff filed the lawsuit just before the expiration of the prescription period.
- (n.) The period after which a legal claim or debt is extinguished due to non-enforcement over time.
After the prescription period elapsed, the creditor could no longer collect the debt.
Forms
- prescription periods
Related terms
Commentary
Used interchangeably with 'limitation period' in many jurisdictions; drafters should specify exact duration and triggering events to avoid ambiguity.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.