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Criminal Statutes of Limitations in Alabama

How long prosecutors in Alabama have to file charges for felonies and misdemeanors, and which crimes have no time limit.

Short answer: Except as otherwise provided by law, felonies must be charged within five years after the offense. Misdemeanors before a circuit or district court must be charged within 12 months. There is no time limit for any capital offense; Ala. Code §§ 15-3-1, 15-3-2, 15-3-5

Criminal statutes of limitationsExcept as otherwise provided by law, felonies must be charged within five years after the offense. Misdemeanors before a circuit or district court must be charged within 12 months. There is no time limit for any capital offense; any felony involving the use, attempted use or threat of violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death; any sex offense under Section 15-20A-5 involving a victim under 16; and any felony involving arson, forgery, counterfeiting or drug trafficking.
No-limit offenses: https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=15-3-5
Source: Ala. Code §§ 15-3-1, 15-3-2, 15-3-5

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FAQ

What is the statute of limitations for crimes in Alabama?
Except as otherwise provided by law, felonies must be charged within five years after the offense. Misdemeanors before a circuit or district court must be charged within 12 months. There is no time limit for any capital offense; any felony involving the use, attempted use or threat of violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death; any sex offense under Section 15-20A-5 involving a victim under 16; and any felony involving arson, forgery, counterfeiting or drug trafficking.

General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.