The limitation period is back in action: what the new law changes and why it is important for everyone

The President has signed an important law that affects everyone who has debts or litigation. This is Law No. 4434-IX, which abolishes the special rule introduced during martial law, namely the suspension of the limitation period. Now, these terms will be calculated again, as before, even before a full-scale war.

For your understanding, the statute of limitations is a statutory period during which a person or company may go to court to protect its rights. For example, if you have not been repaid a debt, you have a few years to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, even a fair claim may not be considered by the court.

After the outbreak of full-scale war in 2022, these deadlines were “frozen” because it was believed that many people were physically unable to go to court due to the fighting. But time has passed, and now the parliament and the president have recognized that the judicial system is working, the electronic document flow is established, and most citizens and companies have access to justice. This means it is time to restore the statute of limitations.

What exactly is changing?

The law cancels the rule that “suspended” the limitation period during martial law. That is, from the moment the new law comes into force, all terms will start running again. This means that:

• If you owe someone money, be prepared for a lawsuit;
• If someone owes you money, don’t delay, as you may lose the chance to defend yourself in court;
• Businesses should check their receivables and payables to avoid missing deadlines or filing a lawsuit too late.

The law states that it will come into force three months after its publication. This gives everyone – both ordinary citizens and businesses — time to prepare.

What if a person is serving at the front?

The law also takes this into account. If a person was not really able to file a lawsuit, for example, due to participation in hostilities, the court may not apply the limitation period. This is already provided for in Article 267(5) of the Civil Code.

Why is it important?

Previously, debtors could count on the fact that the deadline was “not running” and they were not facing a lawsuit. Now everything is returning to normal. This helps to restore the balance of rights between the plaintiff and the defendant, and also guarantees legal certainty: everyone knows what term they can count on.

And most importantly, it is another step towards legal stability in times of war. The Ukrainian state demonstrates that even in difficult circumstances, the law continues to operate. And everyone – from citizens to companies – should be attentive to their rights and obligations.

If you have any questions or need advice on this topic, please contact our specialists. We have a team of professionals. Contact us, get verified data, and benefit from our invaluable experience.