Statute of Limitations for Criminal Offenses in Vermont
Some of the types of crimes that do not carry a time limit include:
- Murder
- Arson
- Causing death
- Kidnapping
- Aggravated sexual assault
According to the Vermont General Assembly, crimes that do carry a statute of limitations in Vermont include:
- Child sexual offenses including sexual assault, lewd and lascivious conduct, sexual exploitation of a minor, lewd or lascivious conduct with a child, and manslaughter. These offenses generally carry with them a 40-year timeframe where someone can be charged. This limit is extended in such a way that gives children the opportunity to come forward with their allegations. Children are often scared or haven’t realized they were mistreated which is why they don’t come forward right after the incident has occurred.
Crimes that carry a six-year statute of limitations:
- Manslaughter
- Sex assault
- Burglary
- Robbery
- Embezzlement
- Forgery
- Fraud
- Bribery
- Felony tax charges
Crimes that carry a time limit of three years include:
- Most felonies and misdemeanor crimes.
If an individual is charged for a crime that has reached its statute of limitations, the proceedings shall be void. Again, it all comes down to the type of crime and the actions involved with it. While you may think that a burglary charge is only valid for six years, if another offense was committed at the same time, the statute of limitations may be extended even father or may not apply.
Want to Learn More About Criminal Statute of Limitations in Vermont?
If you have questions that pertain to your case or are wondering whether the charges that have been pinned against you are legitimate, contact one of the featured Vermont criminal defense lawyers on our site today and get the answers you are seeking.
Criminal charges have the potential to change a person’s life for the worst so you want to be certain you do everything in your power to get them dismissed or reduced. The most effective way to accomplish this is with the help of a local defense lawyer who knows the current state and district laws and will use them to help benefit the outcome of your case.
