What is a Statute of Limitations?

A statute of limitations dictates the time during which you can legally pursue a claim or charge. This applies to both civil and criminal charges. There are many different kinds of charges that change how long you can wait before filing a claim.

How Long is a Statute of Limitations?

The length of the statute of limitations varies between states. It also changes depending on the crime or charge. For example, there is no statute of limitations on murder charges. In Utah, there is no statute of limitations on kidnapping charges, either. Other crimes may have various lengths of time during which an individual is allowed to file a claim. Personal injury cases usually have a statute of limitations, as well.

Why is There a Statute of Limitations?

Implementing a statute of limitations helps prevent the loss or deterioration of evidence. Memories change and evidence deteriorates, which can make it difficult to prove a crime beyond a doubt. It also helps prevent filling the court system with crimes and charges that have become irrelevant over time.

What Happens if you Let the Statute of Limitations Run Out?

If a statute of limitations applies to your situation, it places a time limit on how long you can wait before filing a charge. If you fail to complete this in that time period, you will lose your right to sue and collect compensation for damages. This is why it is important to ensure that you know if a statute of limitations applies to your situation.

A statute of limitations limits the time frame that you can file a claim. Though this can disrupt your ability to pursue a claim, statutes of limitation are typically reasonable lengths of time. To learn more about the statute of limitations, or to determine if you are still eligible to file a claim, contact us at LeBaron & Jensen today!