Can I be charged with a crime that occurred ten years ago?

A criminal defense statute of limitations gives the allowable time in which a crime must be charged. It is different in each state and for each crime. Federal law will also carry different statutes of limitations depending on the crime.

Criminal Statute of Limitations

A statute of limitations is a time limit for filing charges in a case. Each crime in each jurisdiction may carry its own statute of limitations. For some crimes, such as homicide and sexual abuse, there may not be a statute of limitations (depending on the jurisdiction). You must consult local law regarding your charges to determine whether the charges have been filed within the allowable time. If you are being charged with a federal crime, you must consult federal law.

When determining how a statute of limitations applies to your case, you will also need to look at events that may have caused the clock on your statute to reset or start again. Other rules may apply to the statute of limitations in your case. An experienced attorney will be able to explain the law in your case and research any statutes that apply to your case.

Getting Legal Advice

If you have been charged with a crime years after it was committed, it is a good idea to talk to an experienced criminal defense attorney about your charges. An attorney can advise you of the statute of limitations and help you get your case dismissed if the statute is in your favor.