Georgia Criminal Statute of Limitations

Statute: 17-3-1, 2, 2.1

Summary: The following sets forth the applicable crimes and the time period within which a prosecution must commence thereafter.

Felonies:

• Forcible rape: 15 years
• Murder: N/A
• Crimes punishable by death or life imprisonment: 7 years
• Others: 4 years
• Crimes against victims under 14: 18 years
• For victims under 16 years of age for offenses such as rape, sodomy, incest, and child molestation (occurring after 7/1/92), the statute will run upon the victim turning 16 or when the violation is reported, whichever occurs earlier. If DNA evidence establishes identity of accused in armed robbery, kidnapping, rape, aggravated child molestation, aggravated sodomy, aggravated sexual battery: N/A

Misdemeanors:  2 Years

Statute (time) does not run: Nonresident; when person or crime is unknown

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