Ukraine Cancels Suspension of Limitation Periods During Martial Law

On June 4, 2025, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted Draft Law No. 11315, effectively canceling the suspension of limitation periods that had been in place during martial law. This legislative change marks a significant shift in the legal landscape, reinstating the standard timeframes for initiating civil actions.

Background

Since the onset of martial law in February 2022, Ukraine had suspended the running of limitation periods for civil claims. This suspension aimed to accommodate the extraordinary circumstances faced by individuals and businesses during the conflict, ensuring that parties were not disadvantaged by their inability to pursue legal actions within the usual time limits.

Key Provisions of the New Law

The newly adopted law removes Clause 19 from the Final and Transitional Provisions of the Civil Code of Ukraine, which had provided for the suspension of limitation periods during martial law. As a result, the calculation of limitation periods will resume, and parties must now adhere to the standard deadlines for filing civil claims.

Implications for Legal Proceedings

The reinstatement of limitation periods has several important implications:

• Resumption of Time Limits: Individuals and businesses must be aware that the clock has restarted on limitation periods. Failure to initiate legal proceedings within the prescribed timeframes may result in the loss of the right to pursue certain claims.
• Increased Legal Activity: The resumption of limitation periods is likely to lead to an uptick in legal filings as parties seek to protect their rights before deadlines expire.
• Judicial System Preparedness: Courts may experience a surge in cases, necessitating efficient case management and resource allocation to handle the increased workload.

Conclusion

The cancellation of the suspension of limitation periods signifies a return to normalcy in Ukraine's legal system, despite the ongoing challenges posed by martial law. Legal practitioners and the public must stay informed about these changes to ensure compliance and the effective pursuit of legal rights.