Get your booster dose   |   Rapid antigen testing kits are free at pharmacies
Government of B.C. Government of B.C.
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to main navigation
  • Skip to site search
  • Skip to side bar
  • Skip to footer

BC Gov News

  • Home
  • Ministries
  • Sectors
  • Connect
  • Subscribe
  • News Archive
  • Live Webcast
  • Office of the Premier
  • Advanced Education and Skills Training
  • Agriculture and Food
  • Attorney General
  • Children and Family Development
  • Citizens' Services
  • Education and Child Care
  • Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation
  • Environment and Climate Change Strategy
  • Finance
  • Forests
  • Health
  • Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation
  • Intergovernmental Relations Secretariat
  • Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation
  • Labour
  • Land, Water and Resource Stewardship
  • Mental Health and Addictions
  • Municipal Affairs
  • Public Safety and Solicitor General
  • Social Development and Poverty Reduction
  • Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
  • Transportation and Infrastructure

close menu Office of the Premier

Historic investment to build modern, new RBCM, safeguard collection

May 13, 2022 1:33 PM
Historic investment to build modern, new RBCM, safeguard collection
A new state-of-the-art and seismically safe Royal BC Museum (RBCM) is coming to Victoria and will be more accessible for all British Columbians.
  Read More

Indigenous-led plan for community centre moves forward

May 6, 2022 10:15 AM
ALL NEWS FROM THE PREMIER
More from the Premier
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Premier's Bio

close menu Advanced Education and Skills Training

Indigenous-led plan for community centre moves forward

May 6, 2022 10:15 AM
New centre to support Indigenous youth
A concept plan for a new Indigenous centre is moving forward on the territories of the Coast Salish peoples in Vancouver.
  Read More

Student housing triples in Abbotsford

May 13, 2022 12:15 PM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Agriculture and Food

New funding sprouts more growth for B.C. seeds

May 5, 2022 8:15 AM
The Province is increasing support for B.C. seed growers to enhance and expand their operations, bolster food security and create a thriving food economy.
  Read More

B.C. Land Matching Program reaches new milestone

April 13, 2022 9:15 AM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Attorney General

Province, mayors co-ordinate investigation into prolific offenders

May 5, 2022 12:50 PM
Making our communities safer
The Province, in co-operation with British Columbia’s Urban Mayors’ Caucus (BCUMC), has hired two experts to investigate and report on prolific offenders and random violent attacks, and the necessary actions.
  Read More

New accessible, affordable homes underway in Vancouver

May 16, 2022 1:30 PM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Children and Family Development

Province seeks public input on supports for children, youth

April 20, 2022 11:15 AM
A survey about B.C’s new service approach for children and youth with support needs is now open to the public.
  Read More

Process begins to select family connections centres

May 10, 2022 4:08 PM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Citizens' Services

BC Data Catalogue improved, updated to serve British Columbians better

May 16, 2022 10:30 AM
From data about wildfires and floods to natural resource and tech-sector insights, finding a wide variety of key information has become easier and more secure for British Columbians with the launch of an improved and updated BC Data Catalogue.
  Read More

Modernized, streamlined registry makes registering personal property easier

April 15, 2022 8:30 AM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Education and Child Care

Kids, families benefit from more funding for accessible school playgrounds

April 29, 2022 11:15 AM
Kids, families benefit from more funding for accessible school playgrounds
More than 7,000 B.C students will have access to new, safe and accessible playgrounds as the Province invests in the Playground Equipment Program (PEP) for the fifth year in a row to support healthy and active lifestyles.
  Read More

Minister’s statement on child care month

May 1, 2022 9:30 AM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation

British Columbians can access more in EV charger rebates

May 18, 2022 10:05 AM
Better rebates for EV chargers
The Province and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) are making it more affordable for people to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in their homes, businesses and communities.
  Read More

New oil and gas royalty system ending inefficient subsidies

May 19, 2022 1:15 PM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Environment and Climate Change Strategy

B.C. launches new program to accelerate local climate action

May 16, 2022 10:45 AM
Supporting local climate action
Stronger collaboration, planning and action to reduce climate pollution and build protection for local communities will result from the new CleanBC Local Government Climate Action Program.
  Read More

Earth Day spurs action on plastic pollution

April 22, 2022 2:00 PM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Finance

Budget 2022 moves us forward together to build a StrongerBC

February 22, 2022 1:40 PM
Budget 2022 moves us forward together to build a StrongerBC
Budget 2022 reflects the choices government is making that are needed to build a stronger B.C. and make life better for people, by investing in B.C.’s economic, environmental and social strengths.
  Read More

More than $530,000 raised in support of Ukraine

March 22, 2022 8:00 AM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Forests

B.C. increases forest revenue sharing with First Nations in step toward new fiscal relationship

April 27, 2022 12:45 PM
Photo of trees with icon of hands and trees in white overtop
Text reads: Doubling First Nation forestry revenue rates
British Columbia is more than doubling the forestry revenues that will be shared with First Nations as part of the work to co-develop a new forestry revenue-sharing model.
  Read More

Forest employment program provides jobs, supports communities

May 13, 2022 11:35 AM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Health

Ukrainians fleeing violence get immediate MSP coverage

April 25, 2022 1:30 PM
Ukrainians fleeing violence get immediate MSP coverage
Displaced Ukrainians arriving in B.C. with visas issued under the federal Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) will now have access to date-of-arrival Medical Services Plan (MSP) coverage.
  Read More

New primary care centre opens in Chilliwack

May 13, 2022 11:50 AM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation

B.C. increases forest revenue sharing with First Nations in step toward new fiscal relationship

April 27, 2022 12:45 PM
Photo of trees with icon of hands and trees in white overtop
Text reads: Doubling First Nation forestry revenue rates
British Columbia is more than doubling the forestry revenues that will be shared with First Nations as part of the work to co-develop a new forestry revenue-sharing model.
  Read More

B.C., First Nations leadership help communities recover

April 21, 2022 2:00 PM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Intergovernmental Relations Secretariat

Nominate an exceptional citizen for Province’s highest honour

January 20, 2022 8:00 AM
Nominate an exceptional citizen for Province’s highest honour
Nominations are being accepted for the Order of British Columbia, the Province’s highest honour.
  Read More

Outstanding people recognized for service during the pandemic

March 22, 2022 2:30 PM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News

close menu Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation

Trade mission will showcase B.C.’s strong reputation

May 19, 2022 3:00 PM
Trade mission will showcase B.C.’s strong reputation
As the next step in the StrongerBC Economic Plan and as part of bringing good-paying jobs for people and families back to British Columbia, Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation, will embark on a 10-day trade mission to Europe.
  Read More

People in Merritt will benefit from rural development supports

May 13, 2022 7:45 AM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Labour

Single-step certification will protect right to join a union

April 6, 2022 1:51 PM
Single-step certification will protect right to join a union
Changes that make collective bargaining more accessible will help protect workers who want more say about workplace safety, compensation and benefits.
  Read More

B.C. expands cancer coverage for firefighters

April 22, 2022 12:30 PM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Land, Water and Resource Stewardship

Watershed restoration creates a healthier future for B.C.

April 21, 2022 11:15 AM
Watershed restoration creates a healthier future for B.C.
An ongoing effort to restore watersheds and wetlands in the province is creating a healthier future for British Columbians by mitigating the impacts of climate change on communities, strengthening ecosystems and securing quality drinking water.
  Read More

Ministers’ statement on Invasive Species Action Month

May 6, 2022 3:00 PM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Mental Health and Addictions

New service helps clarify rights under Mental Health Act

April 28, 2022 10:18 AM
New service helps clarify rights under Mental Health Act
The Province has introduced legislation that will help people experiencing a mental-health crisis better understand their rights and the supports available to them.
  Read More

Expanding access to mental-health supports for health-care, social service workers

May 6, 2022 11:00 AM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Municipal Affairs

Ukrainians fleeing violence get immediate MSP coverage

April 25, 2022 1:30 PM
Ukrainians fleeing violence get immediate MSP coverage
Displaced Ukrainians arriving in B.C. with visas issued under the federal Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) will now have access to date-of-arrival Medical Services Plan (MSP) coverage.
  Read More

Pandemic relief funds help libraries adapt to changing needs

May 17, 2022 12:30 PM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Public Safety and Solicitor General

Province, mayors co-ordinate investigation into prolific offenders

May 5, 2022 12:50 PM
Making our communities safer
The Province, in co-operation with British Columbia’s Urban Mayors’ Caucus (BCUMC), has hired two experts to investigate and report on prolific offenders and random violent attacks, and the necessary actions.
  Read More

B.C. seeks public input on consumer experiences

May 16, 2022 10:00 AM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Social Development and Poverty Reduction

Funding helps strengthen food security in Greater Victoria

May 12, 2022 1:00 PM
Funding helps strengthen food security in Greater Victoria
Residents with limited income living in Greater Victoria will soon have improved access to local and nutritious food.
  Read More

Helping more British Columbians visit the dentist

May 4, 2022 2:00 PM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport

Historic investment to build modern, new RBCM, safeguard collection

May 13, 2022 1:33 PM
Historic investment to build modern, new RBCM, safeguard collection
A new state-of-the-art and seismically safe Royal BC Museum (RBCM) is coming to Victoria and will be more accessible for all British Columbians.
  Read More

Province bolsters support for live music events

May 18, 2022 1:00 PM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio

close menu Transportation and Infrastructure

Province launches Surrey Langley SkyTrain engagement

May 9, 2022 12:00 PM
Province launches Surrey Langley SkyTrain engagement
The public is invited to have their say on the first rapid transit project south of the Fraser River in 30 years.
  Read More

New commercial inspection station near Terrace will improve road safety

May 4, 2022 8:00 AM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio
  • Home
  • Ministries
    • Office of the Premier
    • Advanced Education and Skills Training
    • Agriculture and Food
    • Attorney General
    • Children and Family Development
    • Citizens' Services
    • Education and Child Care
    • Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation
    • Environment and Climate Change Strategy
    • Finance
    • Forests
    • Health
    • Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation
    • Intergovernmental Relations Secretariat
    • Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation
    • Labour
    • Land, Water and Resource Stewardship
    • Mental Health and Addictions
    • Municipal Affairs
    • Public Safety and Solicitor General
    • Social Development and Poverty Reduction
    • Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
    • Transportation and Infrastructure
  • Sectors
  • Connect
  • Subscribe
  • News Archive
  • Live Webcast

Attorney General

B.C.'s new Limitation Act changes time limits to sue

Share

More from this Ministry
Honourable David Eby

Honourable David Eby

Attorney General and Minister responsible for Housing

Read Bio

Contact

Email: AG.Minister@gov.bc.ca

close menu Attorney General

Province, mayors co-ordinate investigation into prolific offenders

May 5, 2022 12:50 PM
Making our communities safer
The Province, in co-operation with British Columbia’s Urban Mayors’ Caucus (BCUMC), has hired two experts to investigate and report on prolific offenders and random violent attacks, and the necessary actions.
  Read More

New accessible, affordable homes underway in Vancouver

May 16, 2022 1:30 PM
ALL NEWS FROM THIS MINISTRY
More from this Ministry
  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Search News
  • Minister's Bio
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
Print

Attorney General

British Columbia News

B.C.'s new Limitation Act changes time limits to sue

https://news.gov.bc.ca/04455

Share

Information Bulletin

Victoria
Friday, May 31, 2013 1:00 PM

Share

Information Bulletin

Victoria

Friday, May 31, 2013 1:00 PM

More from this Ministry

  • Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
  • Visit Ministry Website

Featured Topics

  • About B.C.'s Justice System
  • Justice Access Centres
  • Family Justice
  • Family Justice Counsellors
  • Justice Transformation
  • Protection Orders

Featured Services

  • Strata Housing
  • Building and Safety Standards
  • Residential Tenancy Branch
  • Court Services Online
  • Family Maintenance Enforcement

Effective June 1, B.C.'s new Limitation Act changes the time limits for filing civil lawsuits, making the process simpler and clearer for British Columbians.

Limitation periods put a cap on the length of time people have to sue, providing clarity and certainty around when liability begins and ends, and ensuring citizens have the ability to access the civil justice system to seek recourse for a legal problem.

The new Limitation Act establishes a single, two-year "basic limitation period" for most civil claims, such as those that involve personal injury or defamation. Generally, for these cases the clock that measures how much time people have to file a civil lawsuit starts to tick as soon as plaintiffs discover they have a legal claim.

The act also creates an "ultimate limitation period" of 15 years for legal claims which may not be discovered right away, such as undetected medical complications resulting from surgery. Under the new law, plaintiffs have 15 years from the date that the "act or omission" occurred - whatever action that gave rise to their legal claim - to discover their claim and start a civil lawsuit.

B.C.'s former limitation law allowed for a variety of different basic limitation periods and had an ultimate limitation period that could extend up to 30 years, often leading to confusion among the public, legal profession and other professions around time limits, and resulting in complex trials.

Changes to the new law followed a model that the Uniform Law Conference of Canada put forward in an attempt to develop a more harmonized approach to limitations law across the country. As a result, B.C.'s Limitation Act now is more in line with other provinces, helping B.C. businesses and professionals remain competitive, since limitation periods can affect things like the cost and availability of insurance, how financial arrangements are structured and how organizations determine their records management policies.

Quick facts:

  • The new Limitation Act was passed by the legislative assembly on April 26, 2012. It replaces and repeals B.C.'s former Limitation Act on June 1, 2013.
  • The former Limitation Act had not been comprehensively reviewed since its introduction in 1975.
  • The new Limitation Act was the result of significant consultation with the public, stakeholders and legal and local government representatives. Government heard from 290 groups and individuals during the initial consultations, and 68 people and organizations made submissions to the 2010 white paper.
  • Exceptions to the two-year basic limitation period under the new Limitation Act are civil claims that enforce a monetary judgment, exempted claims and actions that have limitation periods set by other statutes.

Learn more:

Resources on B.C.'s new Limitation Act: http://www.ag.gov.bc.ca/legislation/limitation-act/2012.htm

Transition rules flowchart: http://www.ag.gov.bc.ca/legislation/limitation-act/pdf/LAFlowchart.pdf

 

 

https://news.gov.bc.ca/04455

Related Articles

Province, mayors co-ordinate investigation into prolific offenders

May 5, 2022 12:50 PM

New accessible, affordable homes underway in Vancouver

May 16, 2022 1:30 PM

Recording of Residential Tenancy Branch hearings promotes transparency

May 19, 2022 11:00 AM
BC Gov News

Connect with the Ministry

Photos

View the Ministry's latest photos on Flickr.

Videos

Watch the Ministry's latest videos on YouTube.

Sound Bites

Listen to the Ministry's latest audio clips on SoundCloud.

Connect with Us:

  • BC Gov
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Photos
  • Videos
  • Newsletters
  • RSS Feeds

  • Home
  • Disclaimer
  • Privacy
  • Accessibility
  • Copyright
  • Contact Us
  • Connect
View all Social Media