comingintoforce

Coming into force is a legal term that describes the moment when a law, treaty, regulation, or other legal instrument becomes legally effective and enforceable. It marks the transition from enactment or agreement to practical application.

In domestic law, coming into force is usually specified in the instrument itself. A statute may state a specific date on which it takes effect, or it may be brought into force by an order or proclamation issued by an executive authority. Some provisions come into force immediately on assent, while others apply only to future conduct or to particular situations. Transitional or savings provisions may be used to manage ongoing rights, obligations, or processes during the shift to full legal effect.

In international law, the parallel concept is when an agreement or treaty becomes binding on the parties. This often requires a number of conditions, such as ratification, accession, or acceptance, and the instrument may specify a particular date or condition for entry into force. Treaties can also provide for different entry into force dates for different parties or for specific provisions to take effect at different times.

Commencement provisions and related clauses govern which parts of a law are active, and when. They help manage implementation, avoid legal gaps, and may include staged timelines, sunset clauses, or transitional arrangements. The term is distinct from enactment (the passage of the law) and from repeal or amendment (changes to the law after it has come into force).