What is the purpose of statutes of limitations?

Statutes of limitations serve a crucial role in the legal system by establishing the specific time frame within which an individual is allowed to file a lawsuit. This concept is essential for several reasons. It provides legal certainty, ensuring that cases are brought forth while evidence is relatively fresh and witnesses are available, thereby promoting a fair judicial process. Once the time period specified by the statute lapses, the right to file a lawsuit is typically lost, preventing indefinite exposure to legal claims and encouraging timely resolution of disputes. This mechanism helps to uphold the integrity of the legal process and manage court resources effectively.

The other options focus on different aspects of legal proceedings, such as calculating damages, defining negligence, or outlining liability, none of which pertain to the essential function of statutes of limitations.