Opinion ID: 787014
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: FDCPA statute of limitations for fraudulent transfers 10

Text: 19 Appellants assert that all of the transfers in this proceeding fall outside of the relevant statute of limitations period. 11 20 A statute of limitations defense is an affirmative defense. See Fed.R.Civ.P. 8(c). An affirmative defense places the burden of proof on the party pleading it. See United States v. Cent. Gulf Lines, Inc., 974 F.2d 621, 629 (5th Cir.1992). The transfers fall under section 3304(b)(1)(A). To avail themselves of the relevant statute of limitations defense for a particular transfer, therefore, Appellants must prove that the FTC's claim was brought more than six years after the transfer was made or more than two years after the transfer was or could reasonably have been discovered by the FTC. 28 U.S.C. § 3306(b)(1). 21 Namer's limited testimony did not establish that the transfers occurred more than six years prior to the commencement of this action. Moreover, even if one or more of the transfers occurred more than six years prior, the evidence failed to call into question the FTC's assertion that it did not learn of the transfers until August 2002, within two years of seeking relief. Likewise, Appellants do not allege that the FTC could reasonably have discovered the transfers any earlier. Accordingly, Appellants have failed to meet their burden of proof.