To toll means to stop or suspend the running of a legal time period, especially one created by a statute or filing deadline. The term is most often used when discussing whether a claim remains timely.

Tolling matters because pausing a deadline can determine whether a lawsuit or other legal action may still proceed under the applicable Statute.

Toll Explained

Cornell Wex defines toll as stopping the running of a time period, especially a statute of limitations. The Ninth Circuit glossary likewise directs the reader from toll to the statute-of-limitations concept, reflecting the way the term is typically used in litigation.

The Term Toll in Different Legal Contexts

In civil cases, tolling often affects when a plaintiff must file suit. In criminal matters, it may affect whether charges are still timely. Courts and statutes may recognize tolling because of concealment, minority, military service, bankruptcy-related rules, or other legally recognized grounds.

The specific effect of tolling depends on the governing law. Sometimes the clock pauses and later resumes; in other situations, the deadline is recalculated under a particular rule.

Common Misconceptions About the Meaning of Toll

A common misconception is that tolling permanently erases a deadline. Usually it only pauses or extends the clock under limited legal conditions.

Another misconception is that any hardship automatically tolls a time period. In practice, tolling generally requires a statute, rule, or doctrine that actually authorizes it.