July 24, 2013

Rescinding a contract under the Securities & Exchange Act.

Practice point:  An implied private right of action exists pursuant to section 29(b) of the Act to rescind a contract made in violation of section 15(a) of the Act (see 15 USC § 78cc[b].

Student note:  The one-year statute of limitations and three-year statute of repose of section 29(b) of the Act apply to implied causes of action to rescind a contract for violation of section 15(a), whether asserted in a complaint or as a counterclaim or defense. The three-year period specified in section 29(b) is a statute of repose, which envelops both the right and the remedy. The repose period serves as an absolute barrier, and, accordingly, CPLR 203(d) cannot serve to extend a claim for rescission of a contract pursuant to section 29(b) of the Act.

Case:  Obstfeld v. Thermo Niton Analyzers, LLC, NY Slip Op 05304 (2d Dept. 2013). 

Here is the decision. 

Tomorrow's issue: Modifying a custody arrangement.