laches definition

laches

Neglect and unreasonable delay in the assertion of one's claims or rights. Courts expect reasonable diligence from a claimant, in addition to conscience and good faith. Under the legal doctrine of laches, they may refuse to enforce or recognize an individual's rights if he or she waits more than a reasonable length of time to assert them. Unlike the statute of limitations this doctrine, however, does not define 'reasonable time' but leaves its determination to the courts. Laches is French for, loose, slack, or sluggish.

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