Book Overview: "Limitation of Actions" by Peter R. Handford

Key Themes

The book "Limitation of Actions – The Laws of Australia" by Peter R. Handford is a comprehensive legal text that focuses on the laws governing limitation periods in Australia. The key themes include:

• Limitation Periods: The book provides an in-depth analysis of the various limitation periods applicable to different classes of claims across all Australian states and territories.
• Recent Case Law and Legislative Changes: It includes updates on recent case law and legislative changes, particularly in areas such as child abuse, defamation, personal injury, and mortgages.
• Jurisdictional Differences: The text highlights the differences in limitation periods and laws across different jurisdictions within Australia, making it a valuable resource for practitioners and academics alike.

Plot Summary

The book does not have a narrative plot but rather serves as a reference guide for legal practitioners. It is structured to provide a quick-reference guide to limitation periods, including a table summarizing the periods for various classes of claims in each state and territory. The content is organized to facilitate easy access to information, making it a time-saving resource for busy practitioners.

Critical Reception

While there is no specific critical reception available in the search results, the book is widely recognized as an essential reference for Australian legal practice. It is praised for its comprehensive coverage, user-friendly format, and timely updates on recent case law and legislative changes. The author, Peter R. Handford, is renowned in the field of limitation of actions, which adds to the book's credibility and authority.

Editions and Updates

The book has been updated to include recent developments, with the 5th edition being the latest version. The 5th edition includes significant new developments such as legislation abolishing limitation periods for child abuse cases and amendments to limitation periods in defamation and personal injury cases.

Author's Background

Peter R. Handford is an Emeritus Professor of Law at the University of Western Australia, which underscores his expertise in the field of limitation of actions. His contributions to the legal community are well-respected, and his work on this text has been instrumental in supporting professional compliance and risk management for Australian legal practitioners.