Final answer:
The statement is true; the statute of limitations sets a time limit for filing lawsuits which varies by state and type of case, after which legal action cannot be initiated.
Step-by-step explanation:
True or false; according to the statute of limitations every state has a specific time limit after which a lawsuit cannot be filed. This statement is true. The statute of limitations sets a maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated.
When the period of time specified in a statute of limitations passes, a lawsuit can no longer be filed or if filed, may be subject to dismissal if the statute of limitations defense is successfully raised. This legal principle is designed to protect potential defendants from outdated claims where evidence may no longer be available to defend against the claim.
An example of the application of the statute of limitations is seen in employment discrimination cases, such as the one involving Lilly Ledbetter, which prompted the creation of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act in 2009 to address the issue of late discovery of discrimination.