Criminal Statutes of Limitations in California

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

Short answer: There is no time limit for crimes punishable by death or life in prison (or life without parole) and for embezzlement of public money; certain serious sex offenses also have no limit. Cal. Penal Code §§ 799, 800, 801, 802

Criminal statutes of limitations	There is no time limit for crimes punishable by death or life in prison (or life without parole) and for embezzlement of public money; certain serious sex offenses also have no limit. Crimes punishable by 8 years or more in prison must be charged within 6 years; other crimes punishable by state prison (or county jail under Section 1170(h)) within 3 years; and misdemeanors generally within one year, with longer periods for some listed misdemeanors. Source: Cal. Penal Code §§ 799, 800, 801, 802

Criminal statutes of limitations

There is no time limit for crimes punishable by death or life in prison (or life without parole) and for embezzlement of public money; certain serious sex offenses also have no limit. Crimes punishable by 8 years or more in prison must be charged within 6 years; other crimes punishable by state prison (or county jail under Section 1170(h)) within 3 years; and misdemeanors generally within one year, with longer periods for some listed misdemeanors.

Source: Cal. Penal Code §§ 799, 800, 801, 802

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FAQ

What is the statute of limitations for crimes in California?

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.