Louisiana Criminal Statute of Limitations

Statute: Crim. Proc. Art. 571 et seq., 572, 575

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:

• Crimes with punishment of death or life imprisonment: N/A
• Felony punishable by hard labor: 6 years
• Felony not necessarily punishable by hard labor: 4 years
• Forcible rape: N/A
• Forcible rape, sexual battery (aggravated), carnal knowledge, indecent behavior or molestation of juvenile, crime against nature involving victim under 17 years of age: 10 years beginning when victim turns 18 years old

Misdemeanors:

• Where punishment is a fine or forfeiture: 6 months
• Where punishment is a fine and/or prison: 2 years

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