California Statute of Limitations

The California Statute of Limitations will vary according to the crime. Felonies sometimes have no statute of limitations. For example, murder or other offenses that are punishable by death or life imprisonment or embezzlement of public funds have no statute of limitations. What that means is, if you've done the crime, you'll do the time, no matter when it is discovered. Offenses that are punishable by eight or more years in prison have a limit of 6 years before they cannot be prosecuted. Offenses punishable by imprisonment that are felonies but don't fall into the previous groups carry a limit of only 3 years. Misdemeanor violations committed on a minor under 14 carries a limit of 1 year. Sexual exploitation by a physician or therapist carries a limit of only 2 years. If something happens out of state the statutory periods will not begin until offense is or should have been discovered. The maximum extension is 3 years. http://law.findlaw.com/state-laws/criminal-statute-of-limitations/california/