Statutes Of Limitations in Columbus
Statutes of limitation can sometimes be used as a defense against criminal charges. After charges are filed, Ohio law requires a prosecutor to begin a case within a specific period. Generally, felonies and misdemeanors have different periods:
- Six years for a felony (several exceptions)
- Two years for a misdemeanor that is not a minor misdemeanor
- Six months for a minor misdemeanor
Exceptions For Crimes With Other Time (Limitation) Periods
Murder crimes, including aggravated murder, do not have any limitation periods. Prosecutors can begin a case regardless of when the offense took place. Other felony offenses allow a case to begin within 20 years of the offense including:
–Burglary and Aggravated Burglary
–Robbery and Aggravated Robbery
–Involuntary Manslaughter and Voluntary Manslaughter
– Assault (Felony)
–Aggravated Assault or Felonious Assault (on Peace Officer)
–Rape, Sexual Battery, Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor, Gross Sexual Imposition
Because most crimes have a statute of limitations, our attorneys will consider whether it applies in your case. Sometimes it is evident that an alleged offense occurred within the law’s period. Other times, our attorneys have eliminated charges using a Motion to Dismiss. In this type of motion, our job is to convince the court that the prosecution is time-barred from seeking a conviction.
Finding An Attorney For The Statute Of Limitations
If charges have been filed or a prosecutor has started a case, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at Joslyn Criminal Defense Law Firm. We can help you determine whether the statute of limitations has already expired. Call (513) 399-6289 today to discuss your case.
