If the Defendant fails to appear, the Court may grant judgment against it. A party may appeal a decision of the Provincial Court Judge to the Court of Queen's Bench by filing and serving a Notice of Appeal within 30 days of the giving of the judgment. A party may appear personally in Provincial Court or be represented by an agent or a lawyer. At present, various statutes set out different time periods within which a civil action may be started, depending on the type of claim. For example, contract disputes have a limitation period of six years, personal injury actions have a limitation period of two years, and medical malpractice actions have a limitation of one year.
Some actions have limitations of ten years.
This has caused some confusion. A bill has been passed in the Alberta Legislature to simplify this system so that people will not be denied their legal rights because of not knowing when an action must be started. It is important to consult a lawyer if you believe you have a claim against another person. If you wait, you may lose your rights. In addition, other statutes impose strict liability upon directors.