Is there a statute of limitations for a violent crime?

In California, there is a statute of limitations for violent crimes. This means that there is a time limit on how long prosecutors have to file charges in relation to a violent crime. The statute of limitations depends on the severity of the crime. For example, if the crime is murder, there is no statute of limitations. However, if the crime is a felony assault, the statute of limitations is three years. In cases where the victim was under 18 at the time the crime occurred, the statute of limitations is suspended until the victim turns 18, or until evidence of the crime is discovered or reported. This means, for example, that if a victim was assaulted at the age of 17 and did not report the crime until they were 30, prosecutors could still file charges. The statute of limitations does not begin to run, in some cases, until the perpetrator is identified. For example, if a perpetrator commits a violent crime and is never identified, the statute of limitations will never run out. The statute of limitations also does not apply to certain crimes such as felony sex offenses, kidnapping, and human trafficking. In these cases, prosecutors have an unlimited amount of time to file charges. It is important to note, however, that the statute of limitations is not a defense to violent crimes. In some cases, even if the statute of limitations has expired, prosecutors can still pursue charges.

Related FAQs

What are the rights of a defendant in a violent crime trial?
What is the difference between attempted rape and attempted sexual assault?
What is the Castle Doctrine?
What is the difference between false imprisonment and kidnapping?
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
Are there any mitigating factors that can be used to reduce a sentence for a violent crime?
Can a juvenile be charged with a violent crime?
Can a plea bargain be used to reduce the charged offense in a violent crime case?
What is the difference between felony murder and attempted murder?
What is the difference between voluntary and involuntary manslaughter?

Is there a statute of limitations for a violent crime?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts