This chapter considers the defence of limitation in regard to an action for compensation for breach of trust, which are governed by the Limitation Act 1980. Actions normally have to be brought within a six-year limitation period, though there are exceptions such as fraud, where no limitation period is imposed. The related doctrine of laches (unreasonable delay) is also explored. It also considers those provisions as they apply to actions against fiduciaries who have received an unauthorized profit, which has proved more difficult because the legislation does not make any express provision for such claims. A failed attempt at legislative reform of the operation of limitation periods by the Law Commission is also explored.
