{"jurisdiction": "us-ny", "code": "cplr", "section": "201", "citation": "CPLR § 201", "heading": "Application of article", "text": ["§ 201. Application of article. An action, including one brought in the name or for the benefit of the state, must be commenced within the time specified in this article unless a different time is prescribed by law or a shorter time is prescribed by written agreement. No court shall extend the time limited by law for the commencement of an action."], "official_source": "https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/CVP/201", "from_official_api": true, "plain_english": "Every action — even one brought by or for the **State** — must be started within the time this article sets, **unless** another law gives a different time or a **written agreement** sets a *shorter* one. ★ The killer line: **no court can extend the time to commence an action.** ★ Once the clock expires, a judge has zero power to give you more. Parties can shrink the window by contract, but not stretch it.", "retrieved": "2026-09-27", "url": "https://elyphived.com/us-ny/cplr/201", "publisher": "Elyphived LLC"}