Limitation law in child sexual abuse cases

Closed 10 Jul 2024

Opened 15 May 2024

Contact

limitationlawconsultation@justice.gov.uk

Results updated 6 Feb 2025

This document is the government’s response to the consultation on Limitation Law in child sexual abuse cases

It covers:

  • the background to the consultation
  • a summary of the responses
  • a detailed response to the specific questions
  • the next steps following this consultation

Files:

Overview

This consultation paper seeks views on options for the reform of the law of limitation in child sexual abuse cases in England and Wales.

Specifically, it considers the recommendation by the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (‘the Inquiry’) on limitation law.

It also examines the law of limitation in child sexual abuse cases in other jurisdictions examined by the Inquiry and seeks views on options, other than removal of the limitation period, for reform of limitation law in child sexual abuse cases.

Audiences

  • Citizens
  • Legal professionals
  • Judiciary
  • Victims
  • Legal professional bodies
  • Family lawyers

Interests

  • Courts
  • Criminal justice
  • Access to justice
  • Family justice