Knowing how the statute of limitations works could shape your entire case if you’re facing criminal charges. This legal time limit decides how long prosecutors have to file charges. But in Colorado, not all crimes come with a deadline. Some offenses are considered so severe that they can be prosecuted anytime.
Below, we’ll explain what crimes have no statute of limitations in Colorado, why those laws exist, and what that could mean for your legal situation, especially if you’re in or around Greeley.
A statute of limitations establishes the deadline for filing criminal charges, ensuring cases are addressed promptly before evidence deteriorates or memories fade.
The time limits depend on the nature of the offense and the jurisdiction. In Colorado, most misdemeanors carry a statute of limitations between 12 and 18 months, while felonies typically range from three to ten years.
However, certain crimes in Colorado are considered so severe that they have no statute of limitations, allowing prosecution to occur decades or even a lifetime later.
Colorado law allows certain charges to be filed no matter how much time has passed. These include:
These exceptions are grounded in the profound and lasting consequences of these crimes, not just for the victims but also for communities.
The decision to exempt certain crimes from statutes of limitations stems from their profound severity and societal impact. Key considerations include:
By removing time restrictions on prosecuting these offenses, the legal system underscores a vital principle: justice for such heinous acts will not be constrained by the passage of time.
In some instances, crimes with a statute of limitations can still be prosecuted even after the deadline. This is due to a legal principle called tolling, which pauses or extends the statute of limitations under specific circumstances. Typical scenarios where tolling applies include:
These exceptions ensure justice can prevail, even when significant time has elapsed. If tolling may be relevant to your situation, consulting an experienced defense attorney is essential to understand its impact and explore your legal options.
¨We’re not just a business in Weld County; we’re a part of the community. Living and working here, we’re dedicated to supporting the people of Greeley. Our office is right by the courthouse, deep in the heart of the local legal scene. With over 140 jury trials in 20 years, our experienced attorneys understand that everyone deserves respect and a strong defense, no matter the situation¨
Understanding whether your case falls under state or federal jurisdiction is crucial, as each rule and procedure can vary significantly.
Legal questions don’t come with easy answers, especially when dealing with serious accusations or uncertain timelines. If you need help understanding what crimes have no statute of limitations or want to know where your case stands, we’re here to help.
Contact McAdams Law Office in Greeley to talk with a local defense attorney who understands the stakes. Call (970) 353-0000 for a free consultation. Don’t wait to get answers.
| DUI/DWAI Victories | Criminal Defense Wins |
|---|---|
People v. S.M.Two DUIs downgraded to DWAI, |
People v. M.J.Assault and child abuse charges |
People v. S.D.DUI dismissed, pled to |
People v. S.C.Theft charge dropped, |
People v. B.S.Breath test challenged, |
People v. A.E.Drug charges dismissed, |
People v. E.B.No jail, favorable plea despite |
People v. J.K.Burglary plea reduced, |
People v. R.G.One DWAI dismissed, another reduced with minimal work release. |
People v. C.R.Traffic offense reduced, |
William T. McAdams, known as Bill, is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney and former prosecutor. Since establishing McAdams Law Office in 2006, he has represented clients in cases including DUI, domestic violence, and theft, handling over 100 jury trials. Bill serves clients predominantly in Weld and Larimer counties, including Greeley, Evans, Windsor, Loveland, and Fort Collins. An active community volunteer and member of multiple legal associations, he is dedicated to protecting his clients’ rights.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partiner, William McAdams who has more than 25 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.