All Laws Decoded

Criminal Statutes of Limitations in New Jersey

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

Short answer: No limit: prosecutions for offenses under N.J.S. 2C:11-3 (murder), 2C:11-4 (manslaughter) and 2C:14-2 (sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault), among others listed, may be commenced at any time (§ 2C:1-6(a)). N.J.S. 2C:1-6

Criminal statutes of limitationsNo limit: prosecutions for offenses under N.J.S. 2C:11-3 (murder), 2C:11-4 (manslaughter) and 2C:14-2 (sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault), among others listed, may be commenced at any time (§ 2C:1-6(a)). Crimes generally: within five years after the offense is committed. Disorderly persons and petty disorderly persons offenses: within one year. The period does not run while a prosecution for the same conduct is pending in New Jersey, and the limitations do not apply to any person fleeing from justice.
Source: N.J.S. 2C:1-6

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FAQ

What is the statute of limitations for crimes in New Jersey?
No limit: prosecutions for offenses under N.J.S. 2C:11-3 (murder), 2C:11-4 (manslaughter) and 2C:14-2 (sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault), among others listed, may be commenced at any time (§ 2C:1-6(a)). Crimes generally: within five years after the offense is committed. Disorderly persons and petty disorderly persons offenses: within one year. The period does not run while a prosecution for the same conduct is pending in New Jersey, and the limitations do not apply to any person fleeing from justice.

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.