Massachusetts Criminal Statute of Limitations

Massachusetts, like other states, sets time limits for bringing charges in a criminal case.

By , Attorney Mitchell Hamline School of Law
Updated 2/09/2026

Like most states, Massachusetts sets time limits for prosecutors to begin a criminal case against a suspect. These time limits—called statutes of limitations—can put an end to the case even if a defendant is guilty. This article will briefly review how Massachusetts' statutes of limitations work and what they are for several crimes

What Are Criminal Statutes of Limitations?

Statutes of limitations set time limits for the government to bring criminal charges in a case. If the prosecution charges someone after the applicable time period has passed, the person charged can have the case dismissed.

How Long After a Crime Can Charges Be Filed in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts and most other states, the time limits depend on the offense level or the specific crime. For instance, a prosecutor might have six years to charge one offense and 10 years to charge another. Violent crimes generally have longer statutes of limitations, and some crimes (like murder and child rape) have no statute of limitations—meaning a criminal case can be filed at any time. In certain instances, statutes of limitations are “tolled” (suspended), allowing the government more time to bring a case.

Statute of Limitations for Felonies and Misdemeanors in Massachusetts

Like many states, Massachusetts law sets time limits for a host of specific crimes. For crimes not specifically listed in the statute, a general statute of limitations—six years after the crime—applies.

(Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63 (2026).)

Statutes of Limitations for Specific Crimes in Massachusetts

Below are examples of time limits for specific crimes in Massachusetts. Keep in mind that the following is a partial list that broadly summarizes the law. You should look at the actual law for nuances, exceptions, and legislative changes—and know that court rulings can affect the interpretation of the law.

Offense

Time Limit
Murder and Manslaughter
Murder No time limit
Manslaughter 6 years after the offense
Sexual Offenses Involving Minors
Rape of a child younger than 16 No time limit (requires corroborating evidence after 27 years)
Assault of child younger than 16 with intent to commit rape No time limit (requires corroborating evidence after 27 years)
Indecent assault and battery of child younger than 14 No time limit (requires corroborating evidence after 27 years)
Sexual abuse of a child younger than 18 No time limit (requires corroborating evidence after 27 years)
Sex trafficking of a child younger than 18 No time limit (requires corroborating evidence after 27 years)
Other Rape and Sexual Offenses
Rape committed by force or threat of force 15 years after the offense
Assault with intent to commit rape 15 years after the offense
Sex trafficking 15 years after the offense
Incestuous marriage or sexual activities 10 years after the offense
Crimes Against Vulnerable Victims
Indecent assault and battery on a person with intellectual disability No time limit (requires corroborating evidence after 27 years)
Assault with intent to rob or murder a victim age 60 or older 10 years after the offense
Robbery of a victim age 60 or older 10 years after the offense
Stealing by confining or putting fear into a victim age 60 or older 10 years after the offense
Domestic Violence (Assault and Battery)
Assault and battery on a family or household member 15 years after the offense
Assault and battery in violation of a restraining order or no contact order 15 years after the offense

When Do Statutes of Limitations Start in Massachusetts?

Generally, the statute of limitations starts when the crime occurs. But, in circumstances where it’s difficult to discover the crime or a victim might be particularly scared to report it, the law might delay the starting of the time clock or extend the limitations period.

Crimes Against Minors Younger Than 16

Massachusetts law extends a prosecutor’s window to charge certain crimes committed against victims younger than 16. The time clock doesn’t begin to run until the victim turns 16 or the violation is reported to a law enforcement agency, whichever occurs earlier. Examples of such crimes include drugging a minor for sexual intercourse, enticing a minor to commit sex or prostitution, dissemination of harmful matters to minors, and unlawful and lascivious acts.

Fleeing the State

Also, if a person tries to “evade” (avoid) prosecution, the law gives the prosecutor extra time to file charges. In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations doesn’t run while the defendant is not a resident in the state.

Time to Talk to a Lawyer

Statutes of limitations are confusing, to say the least. In addition to identifying the time limit applicable to a specific crime, one must navigate exceptions, exclusions, extensions, court interpretations, and legislative changes. Consult a knowledgeable attorney in your area to understand how the statutes of limitations apply in a specific case.

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