What is the main goal of the statute of limitations?

The main goal of the statute of limitations is to protect defendants from stale claims. The rationale behind this legal concept is to ensure fairness by preventing the indefinite threat of lawsuits, which could arise from events that occurred so long ago that evidence may have deteriorated or witnesses may no longer be available. By imposing a time limit on when a legal claim can be initiated, the statute encourages timely resolution of disputes and promotes the efficient administration of justice. This framework helps maintain a sense of certainty and stability in legal matters, alleviating the burden on defendants who could otherwise face unjust claims based on outdated facts.