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Criminal Statutes of Limitations in District of Columbia

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

Short answer: May be commenced at any time: murder in the first or second degree, several sexual abuse offenses, and incest (§ 23-113(a)(1)). 15 years for offenses properly joinable with those crimes. D.C. Code § 23-113

Criminal statutes of limitationsMay be commenced at any time: murder in the first or second degree, several sexual abuse offenses, and incest (§ 23-113(a)(1)). 15 years for offenses properly joinable with those crimes. 10 years for certain crimes including child sexual performance and child sex trafficking. Other felonies: 6 years after the offense. Any other criminal offense (misdemeanors): 3 years. For listed offenses against minors (e.g., enticing a child, using a minor in a sexual performance) the period does not begin until the victim reaches 21 years of age. 'No statute of limitations shall extend to any person fleeing from justice.' Extensions apply for official misconduct and fraud or breach of fiduciary trust (capped at 9 years for felonies and 6 years for misdemeanors).
Re-verified 2026-10-27.

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FAQ

What is the statute of limitations for crimes in District of Columbia?
May be commenced at any time: murder in the first or second degree, several sexual abuse offenses, and incest (§ 23-113(a)(1)). 15 years for offenses properly joinable with those crimes. 10 years for certain crimes including child sexual performance and child sex trafficking. Other felonies: 6 years after the offense. Any other criminal offense (misdemeanors): 3 years. For listed offenses against minors (e.g., enticing a child, using a minor in a sexual performance) the period does not begin until the victim reaches 21 years of age. 'No statute of limitations shall extend to any person fleeing from justice.' Extensions apply for official misconduct and fraud or breach of fiduciary trust (capped at 9 years for felonies and 6 years for misdemeanors).

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.