Criminal Statutes of Limitations by State

What is the statute of limitations in your state? How long is the statute of limitations for murder, rape, arson, or other felonies? How does a statute of limitations work if you’re a victim of a crime hoping to press charges? It can be stressful enough to find resources, gain confidence, and come forward as a victim of a felony, but we hope this guide to each statute of limitations by state and our interactive map will help you understand this complex legal world.

Map: Criminal Statutes of Limitations by State

Note: Map is interactive. Hover to view the criminal statutes of limitations for each state and then click for more information. Purple indicates states with no statutes of limitations for felonies.

Please keep in mind, however, that depending on the situation, it may still be worth getting legal counsel even if the deadline has passed, as there may be exceptions with your specific case.

What Does “Statute of Limitations” Mean?

Any law that limits the amount of time a crime victim has to make a legal complaint is referred to as a statute of limitations. A definition that’s a little bit simpler for an average person to understand could be the following: a law indicating the time period in which a court will address a claim. It might be upsetting to hear, but after a certain time period, the victim of an injury is barred from coming forward in the courts, often because it may affect the accuracy of the evidence or the quality of the case. But the criminal statute of limitations by state vary widely, from a few years to decades, and it depends on the type of crime, from rape to assault to theft to forgery. Because each state has its own laws around criminal cases, these statutes of limitations may initially seem somewhat difficult to define. Statutes of limitations can also affect civil cases, like slander, libel, and breaking contracts.

How Long Do You Have to Press Charges?

If you’re a victim of a crime, the amount of time you have to press charges depends on the crime itself and the statute of limitations of the state you’re in. For example, if you’re a victim of a violent rape, in many states, there are no statutes of limitations, meaning you can press charges at any time, even years later. But in some states, you have as little as three to five years to come forward. Look at our guide to statutes of limitations by state to find out how long you have.

What Crimes Do Not Have a Statute of Limitations?

“Heinous crimes” are crimes without a statute of limitations. Mostly, this relates to one crime in particular; there is no statute of limitations on murder, specifically first-degree murder. Is there a statute of limitations on murder of other types? Maybe: The rules for second-degree murder, vehicular manslaughter, or non-vehicular manslaughter depend on the state. While court cases have pushed for labeling other types of crimes as “heinous,” the Supreme Court has shot that effort down. For example, in Stogner v. California, the effort to retroactively expand the statute of limitations on sexual abuse of minors was shot down. (That being said, those kinds of crimes tend to have longer periods depending on the victim’s age.)

Is There a Statute of Limitations for Other Types of Crimes?

Yes, there are plenty of statutes of limitations on crimes. Usually, they fall under two categories: civil statutes of limitations, governing cases like like breaking contracts, libel, slander, or wrongful death, and criminal statutes of limitations, which affect cases of murder, rape, theft, arson, and other kinds of felonies. Usually, states will have a misdemeanor statute of limitations that’s far shorter than for felonies. It depends on the crime.

Some states, like Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Wyoming, have no statute of limitations on felony crimes at all, meaning a victim can come forward at any time.

Criminal Statutes of Limitations in Each State

What’s the statute of limitations for specific crimes? We’ve mapped out these laws by state.

Alabama

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: None
Other Felonies: 5 years
Misdemeanors: 1 year
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Conversion of State or County Revenue: 6 years

In Alabama, the statute of limitations for felonies is typically five years, with several exceptions, such as drug trafficking, forgery, arson, sex offenses against minors, capital offenses, and any felonies involving the use of violence. The only other exception is the conversion of state or county revenue, which has a statute of limitations of six years.

Look up civil statutes in Alabama.

Alaska

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: 10 years
Other Felonies: 10 years
Misdemeanors: 5 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Fraud: 1 year (after discovery of offense)

Most felonies in Alaska have a statute of limitations of either five or ten years, depending on the severity of the crime (AS 09.10). Most sex crimes, kidnapping, and murder have no limitations. Contract lawsuit limitations are usually three years (AS 09.10.053).

Look up civil statute s in Alaska.

Arizona

Murder: None
Rape: 7 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 7 years
Arson: 7 years
Other Felonies: 7 years
Misdemeanors: 1 year
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Petty Offenses: 6 months
- Misuse of Public Money: None

Class 2 through class 6 felonies can be addressed within seven years (13-107). Crimes that result in the death of a person, any violent sexual assault, and any misuses of public monies have no statute of limitation. Misdemeanors are relevant for one year, petty offenses for six months, and written contracts for six years.

Look up civil statutes in Arizona.

Arkansas

Murder: None
Rape: 6 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: 6 years
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 1 year
Other Criminal Statutes:
- All Class Y and A Felonies: 6 Years

In Arkansas, crimes are organized into classes, and the statute of limitations depends on the class of the crime. First-degree murder, second-degree murder, sexual indecency with a child, and first-degree sexual assault can be put forth in the Arkansas court at any time. Unfortunately, rape is considered a class Y felony, meaning that the victim only has six years from the commission of the offense.

Look up civil statutes in Arkansas.

California

Murder: None
Rape: 6 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: Before the victim turns 40
Arson: 3 years
Other Felonies: 4 years
Misdemeanors: 1 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Offenses Punishable by Death or Life Imprisonment: None
- Embezzlement of Public Funds: None

In terms of a statute of limitations, California criminal statutes (Penal Code 799-805) are comparatively lenient for the criminal, with a limitation of six years for any crime punishable by eight years or more in prison. Anything punishable with life imprisonment can be commenced at any time. Child abuse cases must happen before the victim turns 40 years old. The misdemeanor statute of limitations in California is only a year, but written contract cases must come up within four years. See California’s most common statutes of limitations.

Look up civil statutes in California.

Colorado

Murder: None
Rape: 10 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: 3 years
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 18 months
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Class 1 and 2 Traffic Offenses: 1 year
- Forgery: None
- Treason: None
- Petty Offenses: 6 months
- Vehicular Homicide: 5 years
- Anti-Trust Violations: 6 years

Colorado’s statutes of limitations table is fairly simple. Most felonies have a limit of three years, but murder, kidnapping, conspiracy to murder, sex offenses with children, treason, and forgery all do not have a time limit. Vehicular homicide has a limit of five years.

Look up civil statutes in Colorado.

Connecticut

Murder: None
Rape: 5 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 30 years after the victim attains the age of majority, or within 5 years after the victim notifies a police officer
Arson: None
Other Felonies: 5 years
Misdemeanors: 1 year
Other Criminal Statutes:
- All Class A Felonies: None

For Connecticut, class A felonies that are exempt from the statute of limitations are the following: murder, aggravated sexual assault of a minor, assault of a pregnant woman resulting in termination, first-degree sexual assault when the victim is under 13, first-degree aggravated sexual assault when the victim is under 16, first-degree kidnapping, first-degree arson, home invasion, or employing a minor in an obscene performance. For all other felonies, the statute is five years, and it’s one year for misdemeanors. There are many other types of limitations as well, such as funeral service contract fraud, tax evasion, and unemployment compensation, which may expand the number of years.

Look up civil statutes in Connecticut.

Delaware

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: 5 years
Other Felonies: 5 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Class A Misdemeanors: 3 years

Delaware crimes are organized in terms of classes. Class A felonies such as murder have no statute of limitations, other felonies have a limit of five years, class A misdemeanors have a limit of three years, and all other misdemeanors have a limit of two years.

Look up civil statutes in Delaware.

Florida

Murder: None
Rape: None (first-degree felonies: 4 years)
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: 4 years
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors:2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Non-Criminal Violations: 1 year
- Crimes That Would Result in Life Imprisonment: None
- First-Degree Felonies: 4 years

First-degree felony cases must be commenced within four years, other felonies require three years, first-degree misdemeanors must be acted on within two years, and second-degree misdemeanors must be handled within one year. Naturally, there are other exceptions in Florida. Typically, cases involving breaches of written contracts must be brought within five years.

Look up civil statutes in Florida.

Georgia

Murder: None
Rape: 15 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: 4 years
Other Felonies: 4 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Crimes Punishable by Death or Life Imprisonment: 7 years

Most crimes except for those involving DNA evidence have a (statute of limitations in Georgia. Criminal) activities like robbery, kidnapping, rape, child molestation, sodomy, and sexual battery can happen at any time if there is DNA evidence for it (O.C.G.A. 17-3-1). Otherwise, rape should be addressed within 15 years, crimes punishable by life imprisonment or death should be done within seven years, and misdemeanors require under two years.

Look up civil statutes in Georgia.

Hawaii

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: None
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Petty Misdemeanors: 1 year
- Non-Vehicular Manslaughter: 10 years
- Class A Felonies: 6 years
- Fraud: 2-6 years after discovery
- Misconduct in a Public Office: 2-3 years after discovery

Legal proceedings for murder, sexual assault, or continuous sexual assault of a minor under the age of 14 can commence at any time. Class A felony cases can commence within six years, but all other felony cases can commence within three years (701-108). A breach of a contract (oral or written) must be handled within six years in Hawaii.

Look up civil statutes in Hawaii.

Idaho

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: 5 years
Other Felonies: 5 years
Misdemeanors: 1 year
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Terrorism: None
- Ritualized Abuse of a Child: 3 years (after initial disclosure by the victim)

Certain felonies in Idaho do not have statutes of limitations (Title 19, Chapter 4), while most other felonies require a claim within five years. Misdemeanors require one year, and breach of a written contract requires five years.

Look up civil statutes in Idaho.

Illinois

Murder: None
Rape: 10 years (if reported within the first 3 years)
Sexual Crimes Against Children: Within 20 years (after the victim turns 18)
Arson: None
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 18 months
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Theft Crimes: 7 years
- Treason: None

There are quite a few statutes of limitations in Illinois for criminal (P.A. 101-18) or civil (P.A. 12-1102) lawsuits. This state also has a statute of limitations for theft of seven years. Note that for victims of sexual violence as minors, if physical evidence is available, there’s no limitation.

Look up civil statutes in Illinois.

Indiana

Murder: None
Rape: 5 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 10 years (or within 4 years after the victim ceases to be a dependent)
Arson: 5 years
Other Felonies: 5 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Level 1 or 2 Felonies: None
- Forgery: 5 years

The law organizes crimes into tiered levels in Indiana. A statute of limitations for criminal activities does not exist for any level 1 or 2 felonies, including certain sexual crimes against minors. Other levels (3 ,4, 5, and 6) require action to be taken within five years, but note that felonies are extended one year with DNA evidence. Misdemeanors should be handled within two years, and written contracts should be handled within 10 years.

Look up civil statutes in Indiana.

Iowa

Murder: None
Rape: 10 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 10 years (after the victim turns 18)
Arson: 3 years
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 3 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Simple Misdemeanors/Ordinance Violations: 1 year

Like in most states, murder prosecutions can start any time after the victim’s death (802.1). Other Iowa statutes of limitations (614.1) include a three-year limit for most felonies and misdemeanors, with the exception of violence toward minors.

Look up civil statutes in Iowa.

Kansas

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 10 years (after the victim turns 18), or within 1 year of DNA evidence, whichever is later
Arson: 5 years
Other Felonies: 5 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Terrorism: None
- Sexually Violent Crimes (Other Than Rape): 10 years

Murder, rape, criminal sodomy, terrorism, and illegal use of weapons of mass destruction can be addressed at any time, while most other felonies should be addressed within five years (21-5107). Sexual crimes against children should be addressed either within 10 years of the victim’s 18th birthday or within one year of conclusive DNA testing, whichever is later. Misdemeanors should be addressed in two years, and contract issues should be addressed in five years.

Look up civil statutes in Kansas.

Kentucky

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: None
Other Felonies: None
Misdemeanors: 1 year

For most felony crimes in Kentucky, there is no statute of limitations (500.050). But misdemeanors need to be brought to court within a year, and contract issues should be addressed within 10 years.

Look up civil statutes in Kentucky.

Louisiana

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 10 years (after the victim turns 18)
Arson: 6 years
Other Felonies: 4 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Felonies Punishable by Hard Labor: 6 years
- Misdemeanors Punished for Fines/Forfeiture: 6 months

For forcible or second-degree rape, and for any crimes in which the punishment may be death, there’s no limitation (Art. 571). Besides that, Louisiana laws tend to organize the limitations based on the quality of the potential punishment.

Look up civil statutes in Louisiana.

Maine

Murder: None
Rape: 20 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: 6 years
Other Felonies: 6 years
Misdemeanors: 3 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Class A, B, and C Crimes: 6 years
- Class D and E Crimes: 3 years
- Breach of Fiduciary Obligation: 1 year
- Official Misconduct: 2 years

Maine law (section 8) organizes crimes into classes, and the relevant statutes depend on the class. For instance, arson is considered a class A crime and hence can be brought to court within six years of the incident. The exception is class A, B, and C crimes involving “unlawful sexual contact or gross sexual assault,” which can be commenced within 20 years.

Look up civil statutes in Maine.

Maryland

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: 3 years
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 3 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Election Law Violations: 2 years
- Criminal Malfeasance by an Officer: 2 years
- Assault: 1 year
- Libel or Slander: 1 year
- Default Under a Lease: 4 years

Most crimes, civil or otherwise, in Maryland have a three-year statute of limitations, except for libel, slander, and assault, which need to be addressed within a year. Murder, rape, and sex crimes all have no limitation. Contracts written under seal must be handled within 12 years.

Look up civil statutes in Maryland.

Massachusetts

Murder: None
Rape: 15 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: Within 35 years (or 7 years if the victim “reasonably should have discovered” injury)
Arson: 6 years
Other Felonies: 6 years
Misdemeanors: 6 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Robbery: 10 Years

As in most states, murder has no statute of limitations in Massachusetts. Criminal law affecting sexual abuse cases involves 15 years for adult rape and 35 years for child sexual abuse. Otherwise, the state has a great deal of limitations on different kinds of crimes, though the limit for lawsuits tends to be about six years, including contract cases.

Look up civil statutes in Massachusetts.

Michigan

Murder: None
Rape: 6 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 10 years (or when the victim turns 21, whichever is later)
Arson: 6 years
Other Felonies: 6 years
Misdemeanors: 6 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Kidnapping: 10 years
- Extortion: 10 Years

The Michigan criminal statute of limitations is typically six years, with the exception of sexual crimes against minors, in which the victim has 10 years or can file any time before they turn 21, whichever is later. The statute of limitations on kidnapping is also 10 years, as is extortion. Filing a lawsuit for other types of crimes, like malpractice, must happen within two years, and libel/slander cases must happen within one year.

Look up civil statutes in Michigan.

Minnesota

Murder: None
Rape: 9 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 9 years (or 3 years after offense was reported)
Arson: 5 years
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 3 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Bribery, Medical Assistance Fraud, Theft: 6 years
- Environmental Offenses: 5 years
- Identity Theft: 5 years

For some felony cases, the limit in Minnesota is six years, with more time for sexual cases. Any sex offenses can be addressed at any time with DNA evidence, however. Also, arson, certain thefts, and hazardous waste crimes must be handled within five years. All other crimes need to be addressed within three.

Look up civil statutes in Minnesota.

Mississippi

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: None
Other Felonies: 2 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Larceny of Timber: 6 years
- Conspiracy: 5 years
- Assistance Program Fraud: 5 years

Mississippi is one of the states where rape has no time limit for pressing charges. Most felonies require a court action within two years, with a few exceptions, including conspiracy and “felonious assistance program fraud,” which can be handled within five years. Written contract disputes should be addressed within six years, however.

Look up civil statutes in Mississippi.

Missouri

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 10 years
Arson: None
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 1 year
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Fraud: 3 years
- Infractions: 6 months

Typically, three years is time limit under the Missouri statute of limitations. Criminal activities that are class A felonies, like murder, rape, and arson, do not have time limits, however, and cases of sexual abuse of minors are limited to 10 years. Cases of s tatutory rape of minors should be commenced within 30 years, and first-degree rape cases do not have a limit. There are a great deal of laws governing other types of cases, so it may be important to see what sort of crime fits the bill.

Look up civil statutes in Missouri.

Montana

Murder: None
Rape: 10 years (must be reported within 1 year)
Sexual Crimes Against Children: Within 10 years of the victim turning 18 years old
Arson: 5 years
Other Felonies: 5 years
Misdemeanors: 1 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Misdemeanor of Fish, Wildlife, or Outfitter Activities: 3 years
- Office/Fiduciary Obligation Crimes: 1 year

A recent change to the law, HB640, eliminated the statute of limitations for sex crimes against victims under the age of 18. Generally, though, felonies must be brought up within 10 years (45-1-205). For other types of actions, the limits depend on the crime.

Look up civil statutes in Montana.

Nebraska

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 7 years or before the victim turns 16
Arson: None
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 18 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Forgery: None
- Misdemeanors Punished With Less Than 3 Months or a $100 Fine: 1 year
- Human Trafficking or Other Sexual Violence: 7 years

For the most part, three years is the limit for filing a legal claim in Nebraska. For misdemeanor crimes, one year and six months is the limit. Exceptions include kidnapping, false imprisonment, or sexual abuse, all which allow seven years for legal action to be taken. Like in other states, murder, arson, and reason do not have a statute of limitations, but interestingly, the state also has no statute of limitations on forgery.

Look up civil statutes in Nebraska.

Nevada

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: Before the victim turns 36 (if the victim “reasonably should have discovered” the abuse, otherwise by age 43)
Arson: 4 years
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 1 year
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Robbery, Burglary: 4 years
- Forgery: 4 years
- Sex Trafficking: 4 years
- Gross Misdemeanors: 2 years
- Kidnapping: 5 years (if there is a written police report)

Sex trafficking, theft, robbery, burglary, forgery, and arson can lead to legal action within four years. Most other felony cases must be pursued within three years in Nevada. For sex abuse or sex trafficking of children, the victim has until they turn 36 if the victim “reasonably should have discovered” they were the victim of abuse; otherwise, the limit extends until the victim turns 43. Nevada also has many civil statutes of limitations, such as for property crimes.

Look up civil statutes in Nevada.

New Hampshire

Murder: None
Rape: 6 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: Within 22 years of victim’s 18th birthday
Arson: 6 years
Other Felonies: 6 years (for Class A and B felonies)
Misdemeanors: 1 year
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Violations: 3 years
- Misconduct in Public Office: 2 years
- Breach of Fiduciary Duty: 1 year
- Hunting Offense: 3 years

New Hampshire is one of the states that organizes crimes into classes, and the statutes of limitations depend on the class of the crime. For instance, aggravated sexual assault is usually considered a class A felony. The exceptions are murder and sexual crimes against children, in which the child has 22 years after their 18th birthday to take legal action. Contract disputes should be addressed within three years.

Look up civil statutes in New Hampshire.

New Jersey

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 5 years after the victim’s 18th birthday, or 2 years after discovery (whichever is later)
Arson: 5 years
Other Felonies: 5 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Petty Misdemeanors: 1 year
- Bribery and Official Misconduct: 7 years
- Disorderly Conduct: 1 year
- False Imprisonment: 1 year

This state has a five-year limit for most felonies to be addressed, with the exception of murder, manslaughter, and rape. The state has an astonishingly short limit for sex crimes against children, however, with the victim needing to come forward before they turn 23. Written contract disputes should be addressed within six years.

Look up civil statutes in New Jersey.

New Mexico

Murder: None
Rape: None (for a first-degree felony)
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 6 years (for a second-degree felony)
Arson: 6 years (for a second-degree felony)
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Petty Misdemeanors: 1 year
- Sexual Misdemeanors: 2 years
- First-Degree Felonies: None
- Second-Degree Felonies: 6 years
- Third- and Fourth-Degree Felonies: 5 years

In New Mexico, as in a few other states, statutes of limitations are ranked by the degree of the felony, so there are many statutes of limitations. For capital offenses or first-degree felonies, there is no limit on prosecution, but time limits shorten thereafter. Misdemeanors must be pursued two years, and written contract disputes should be addressed within six.

Look up civil statutes in New Mexico.

New York

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: Before the victim turns 28 (for criminal cases, otherwise any time before the victim turns 55)
Arson: None (for first-degree arson)
Other Felonies: 5 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Crimes Punishable by More Than 8 Years in Prison: 6 years
- Lesser Felonies: 3 years
- Petty Offenses: 1 year

Many of the statutes of limitations in New York depend on the circumstances of the case. For example, the (statute of limitations on arson) could be two years, five years, or no limit at all depending on the severity of the case. Typically, however, felonies require action within five years. For child sex abuse cases, New York is pretty lenient: the victim can come forward any time before they turn 55 years old for civil cases, but they would need to come forward before they turn 28 for criminal cases.

Look up civil statutes in New York.

North Carolina

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: None
Other Felonies: None
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Misdemeanors Committed With “Willful Malice”: None

There are no statutes of limitations for felonies in North Carolina. For misdemeanors, there is a two-year limit for crimes like petit larceny where the value doesn’t exceed five dollars, but “malicious misdemeanors” still don’t have a limit. There are other requirements for civil suits, however.

Look up civil statutes in North Carolina.

North Dakota

Murder: None
Rape: 3 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 21 years, or within 3 years of when the crime was reported
Arson: 3 years
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Human Trafficking: 7 years

North Dakota’s criminal statutes of limitations are quite simple: there’s no limit for murder, a three-year limit for most felonies, and a two-year limit for misdemeanors. One exception, however, is the sexual abuse of minors, for which the time period to sue is up to 21 years after the commission of the offense. There are other civil limitations, but by and large, contract disputes should be addressed in less than six years.

Look up civil statutes in North Dakota.

Ohio

Murder: None
Rape: 20 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 20 years
Arson: 20 years
Other Felonies: 6 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Robbery, Burglary: 20 years
- Conspiracy and High-Level Felonies: 20 years
- Petty Misdemeanors: 6 months

By and large, in Ohio, felonies require action in less than six years, misdemeanors require action in less than two years, and minor misdemeanors require legal action within six months. There are several exceptions, however; murder has no statute of limitations, for instance. The following crimes have statutes of limitations up to 20 years: voluntary and involuntary manslaughter, kidnapping, human trafficking, gross sexual imposition, sexual conduct with a minor, compelling prostitution, aggravated arson, terrorism, aggravated rioting, and assault. Interestingly, the statute of limitations on robbery and burglary also extends to 20 years in Ohio. There are also a few statutes governing civil cases.

Look up civil statutes in Ohio.

Oklahoma

Murder: None
Rape: 7 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: Before the victim turns 45
Arson: 6 years
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 3 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Embezzlement of Public Money, Bribery: 7 years
- General Embezzlement: 5 years
- Tax Violations: 5 years
- Criminal Conspiracy: 5 years

For the most part, cases should be brought up in Oklahoma within three years. Rape and forcible sodomy require legal action within seven years, but sexual abuse of minors must be acted on before the victim turns 45. Beyond that, the statute of limitations on embezzlement is a bit longer, with seven years for those in a public office and five years for everyone else. Beyond that, there’s a long list of civil statutes in Oklahoma.

Look up civil statutes in Oklahoma.

Oregon

Murder: None
Rape: 12 years for first-degree rape, 6 years for second-degree rape
Sexual Crimes Against Children: Before the victim turns 30, or 12 years after the offense
Arson: 6 years
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Sexual Misdemeanors: 4 years

For normal felonies, the statute of limitations is three years, but there are a lot of exceptions, including murder, sexual abuse of minors, rape, incest, strangulation, or arson. There are also limitations on civil actions as well.

Look up civil statutes in Oregon.

Pennsylvania

Murder: None
Rape: 12 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: Before the victim turns 30
Arson: 5 years
Other Felonies: 2 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Conspiracy or Solicitation to Commit a Major Offense: 5 years
- Fraud: 3 years
- Official Misconduct: 8 years

Recent efforts seek to expand the statutes of limitations for adult and childhood sexual offenses in PA. The statute of limitations for criminal matters is typically two years, with some exceptions.

Look up civil statutes in Pennsylvania.

Rhode Island

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: None
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 3 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Larceny, Bribery, Embezzlement, Racketeering: 10 years
- Water Pollution: 7 years
- Treason: None
- Burglary and Robbery: None

Victims of criminal offenses should come forward within three years, with exceptions. There’s no statute of limitations for treason, homicide, arson, burglary, counterfeiting, bigamy, forgery, robbery, rape, first-degree sexual assault, child molestation (first or second degree), or drug charges. Larceny, embezzlement, bribery, perjury, and several other kinds of fraud can be brought up within ten years. There are also numerous limits for civil actions.

Look up civil statutes in Rhode Island.

South Carolina

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: None
Other Felonies: None
Misdemeanors: None
Other Criminal Statutes:
- N/A

There are some limits for civil actions, but there are no limitations for felonies, so someone can press charges at any time.

Look up civil statutes in South Carolina.

South Dakota

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 7 years or before the victim turns 25
Arson: 7 years
Other Felonies: 7 years
Misdemeanors: 7 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Class A, B, or C Felony: None

Crimes typically require legal action within seven years, but class A, B, or C felonies do not have a limit. Those classes are typically organized by the level of punishment. There are several civil limits as well.

Look up civil statutes in South Dakota.

Tennessee

Murder: None
Rape: 15 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 8 years
Arson: 4 years
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 1 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Gaming: 6 months
- Class A Felonies: 15 years
- Class B Felonies: 8 years
- Class C and D Felonies: 4 years
- Class E Felonies: 2 years

Aggravated rape cases need to be addressed in 15 years, but class B felony rape needs to be addressed in 8 years. In Tennessee, the limitations depend on how the crimes are classified, though there have been recent efforts to update things.

Look up civil statutes in Tennessee.

Texas

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: 10 years
Other Felonies: 3 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Forgery and Theft: 10 years
- Identity Theft: 7 years
- Money Laundering: 7 years
- Robbery: 5 years

For murder, manslaughter, sexual assault, sexual abuse of a child, leaving the scene of an accident, human trafficking, or compelling prostitution, there is no statute of limitations in Texas. Theft, forgery, and arson should be addressed within ten years. Money laundering, credit card abuse, and other types of fraud typically need to be brought to court within seven years. Most felonies have a statute of limitations of three years. One might want to double-check the statute of limitations on assault in Texas for a specific case, however, because the level and intensity of the crime may affect the time limit.

Look up civil statutes in Texas.

Utah

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: None
Other Felonies: 4 years
Misdemeanors: 2 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Fraud: 3 years
- Bribery: 2 years
- Libel: 1 year

Several offenses, from kidnapping to sexual assault to murder, have no limits on when you can press charges in Utah. The state of Utah has a handy resource where you can look up the statute for your specific type of case.

Look up civil statutes in Utah.

Vermont

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: 40 years
Arson: 11 years
Other Felonies: 6 years
Misdemeanors: 3 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Fraud, Forgery, Bribery, Embezzlement, and Tax Offenses: 6 years
- Robbery, Burglary, and Grand Larceny: 6 years

Murder, human trafficking, arson causing death, kidnapping, sexual assault, and sexual assault of a minor can be litigated at any time. Specific types of sexual abuse with minors must be addressed in court within 40 years. Beyond that, there are several other kinds of limitations.

Look up civil statutes in Vermont.

Virginia

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: None
Other Felonies: None
Misdemeanors: 1 year
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Cruelty to Animals: 5 Years
- Petit Larceny: 5 years
- Attempt to Produce Abortion: 2 years
- Tax Evasion: 3 years
- Environmental Crimes: 2 years

Nonfelonious offenses typically have two years to be pursued in court in Virginia, but felonies typically have no limitation. Written contract issues should be addressed within five years.

Look up civil statutes in Virginia.

Washington

Murder: None
Rape: 20 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: 10 years
Other Felonies: 5 years (Class C); 3 years (lesser felonies)
Misdemeanors: 1 year
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Gross Misdemeanors: 2 years
- Vehicular Incidents Resulting in Death: None

There are several tiers of limitations on court actions in Washington. Recently, lawmakers changed the ruling on cases of sexual crimes against minors as well as making several other updates.

Look up civil statutes in Washington.

West Virginia

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: None
Other Felonies: None
Misdemeanors: 1 year
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Gross Misdemeanors: 2 years
- Perjury: 3 years
- Vehicular Incidents Resulting in Death: None

There are very few West Virginian criminal statutes of limitations and only a few other types of limitations. This means many victims are free to bring forward cases at any time.

Look up civil statutes in West Virginia.

Wisconsin

Murder: None
Rape: 6 years
Sexual Crimes Against Children: Before the victim turns 31
Arson: 6 years
Other Felonies: 6 years
Misdemeanors: 3 years
Other Criminal Statutes:
- Second-Degree Reckless Homicide: 15 years
- Disorderly Conduct: 3 years

Besides murder, most felonies have a six-year statute of limitations, unless DNA evidence is found, which adds a year. Beyond that, there are many different limits on civil cases.

Look up civil statutes in Wisconsin.

Wyoming

Murder: None
Rape: None
Sexual Crimes Against Children: None
Arson: None
Other Felonies: None
Misdemeanors: None
Other Criminal Statutes:
- N/A

Wyoming has no statutes of limitations for criminal prosecutions.

Look up civil statutes in Wyoming.