Time limitations for intellectual property in criminal and civil litigation: a comparative study of England and Jordan

Abstract

In this review of Jordanian and English intellectual property laws, it became apparent that there are few legal rules regulating time limitations for civil or criminal cases. In English law, one such rule stipulates a civil limitation of no less than six years; however, there is no statute of time limitation for criminal cases, and therefore criminal offences do not fall under such limitations. In comparison, in Jordanian law the text of Article 272 of the civil law applies in relation to a statute of civil limitations. The aggrieved party may claim compensation arising from a violation of financial and intellectual property rights up to three years from the date of the victim's knowledge of the offence. In all cases, the hearing may not progress 15 years from the date of the offence. The study concluded with some recommendations.