Multiple courts have held that statutes of limitations simply do not apply in an arbitration proceeding without some contractual provision. The answer is that a typical statute of limitations probably does not apply to an arbitration.I say "probably" because there is a split of authority. Statutes of limitations are the primary way to impose deadlines for filing lawsuits. California Code of Civil Procedure Section 1281.98 requires that arbitration fees be paid within 30 days of the due date. Under CPLR § 214(5), the statute of limitations for a negligence cause of action is three years. File Complaint and initiate Lawsuit – Serve Filed Complaint on Defendant – the civil law time limit is sixty (60) days after filing.