Understanding the Uniform Statute of Limitations on Foreign Claims Act

Definition & Meaning

The Uniform Statute of Limitations on Foreign Claims Act is a law established by the Uniform Law Commission in 1957. It aims to create a consistent legal framework for handling claims that arise outside of the state where the lawsuit is filed. According to Section 2 of the Act, the time limit for filing a claim that accrues outside the state is determined by either the law of the location where the claim originated or the law of the state where the lawsuit is being filed, whichever one expires first. This Act has been adopted by several states, including Oklahoma.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A person files a claim in Oklahoma for an injury that occurred in another state. The claim must adhere to the statute of limitations of the state where the injury occurred or Oklahoma's law, whichever is shorter.

Example 2: A business seeks to recover damages for a contract dispute that originated in a foreign country. The claim must be filed within the time limits established by the foreign jurisdiction or the state where the lawsuit is initiated (hypothetical example).

State-by-state differences

State Applicable Statute of Limitations
Oklahoma Adopts the Uniform Act; follows the shorter time limit between the two jurisdictions.
California Varies based on specific claim type; consult local law.
New York Generally follows the law of the place where the claim accrued.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe your situation involves a claim that accrued outside your state, consider the following steps:

  • Determine the applicable statute of limitations based on the laws of both jurisdictions.
  • Consult with a legal professional to ensure you understand your rights and obligations.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you file your claim correctly.

Quick facts

  • Year Enacted: 1957
  • Primary Purpose: Establish uniformity in statutes of limitations for foreign claims
  • States Adopted: Includes Oklahoma and others
  • Key Consideration: Time limits may vary by jurisdiction

Key takeaways