Limitation Periods During National Emergencies
COVID-19, the Swords of Iron war and the distinction between procedural deadlines and statutory limitation periods.
English Summary
Oz Romano examines the distinction between procedural deadlines and statutory limitation periods during national emergencies. Drawing on a Haifa District Court matter he handled, the article explains why extensions introduced during the COVID-19 emergency did not, by themselves, extend the time limit for commencing a claim.
The court distinguished temporary disruption to court operations from closure that prevents a claim from being filed. The article then contrasts the COVID-19 arrangements with the legislative relief introduced during the Swords of Iron war through Amendment No. 8 to the Limitation Law.
The central point is that procedural extensions and changes to statutory limitation periods have different legal foundations. A deadline must be assessed against the applicable legislation and the circumstances of the claim.