“Limitation Periods” by Professor Andrew McGee is a highly regarded and definitive text that guides legal practitioners through the intricate world of limitation law.

Here’s a breakdown of what makes this publication a crucial resource:

• Established and Updated: It’s a well-established and regularly updated text, now in its ninth edition, ensuring it remains current with the latest legal developments and case law.
• Comprehensive Coverage: The book delves into the complexities of limitation periods, covering a vast range of legal areas and offering detailed guidance from initial considerations to legal proceedings.
• Focus on Practical Application: It’s designed to help practitioners initiate legal actions within appropriate timeframes and address delays that might lead to case dismissals.
• Addressing Key Questions: The text simplifies the often-confusing aspects of limitation periods by addressing key questions such as when time begins to run, the duration of limitation periods, and the consequences of their expiry.
• Coverage of Complexities and Exceptions: The book acknowledges the complexity of the law, with over 150 statutory time limits and various exceptions, and aims to clarify these intricacies for practitioners.
• European and International Focus: It also addresses European and international aspects of limitation law, providing a broader perspective for legal professionals.
• Analysis of Case Law: The book provides in-depth analysis of recent and significant case law, explaining the implications for future actions and decisions. Examples of cases analyzed include:
  • Test Claimants in the Franked Investment Income Group Litigation v Revenue and Customs Commissioners.
  • Matthew v Sedman.
  • Kekwick v Kekwick (meaning of ‘action’ and ‘proceeding’).
  • Boxxe Ltd v Secretary of State for Justice, Walton v Pickerings Solicitors (calculation of time and differences between issue and service).
  • Lees v Kaye (what constitutes ‘personal injury’).
  • Jalla v Shell, Honda Pension Trustees v Mercer Ltd (continuing torts).
  • James v Scudamore (Laches).
• Coverage of Procedural Matters: It includes dedicated chapters on procedural aspects, including pleading questions (how and when to plead limitation points, burden of proof, estoppel) and procedural delays.
• Specific Legal Areas Covered: The book is organized to address limitation issues in specific legal areas, with chapters dedicated to topics like Disability, detailing protections and rules for individuals with disabilities.

In essence, “Limitation Periods” by Professor Andrew McGee serves as an indispensable resource for legal professionals navigating the intricate landscape of limitation law, providing clear guidance, analyzing landmark cases, and addressing practical challenges related to time limits in legal proceedings.