Colorado Criminal Statute of Limitations

Statute: Colorado §16-5-401

Summary: The following sets forth a description of a particular crime or infraction, followed by the time period following such crime within which a legal action can be initiated.  If action is not taken within the stated period below, the victim may potentially lose its right to press charges and the state may no longer be entitled to prosecute:

Felonies:

• Murder, attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit murder, kidnapping, attempt, conspiracy or solicitation to commit kidnapping, treason, attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit treason, any forgery regardless of penalty provided, attempt, conspiracy or solicitation to commit any forgery regardless of penalty provided: N/A
• Sexual assault, aggravated incest, trafficking in or sexual exploitation of children, soliciting for child prostitution, pandering or child procurement: 10 years
• Other felonies: 3 years (bribery and abuse of public office: 3 year extension; sexual offenses on children under 15 years of age: 7 year extension)

Misdemeanors:

• 18 months
• Class I and II and traffic offenses: 1 year
• Petty offenses: 6 months
• 3rd degree sexual assault: 5 years

Back to State Criminal Defense Statutes

• If you or a loved one may have been charged with a Crime and need legal advice from a local certified Criminal Defense Attorney, Submit Your Case for a Free Review.