What does it mean when no charges were filed?

In other instances, the fact that no charges have been filed may simply mean that the assigned prosecutor has been busy, is behind on their work, and hasn’t had a chance to take a look at the intake.

How long can an open case last?

The case can remain “under investigation” until the Statue of Limitations has run. For misdemeanors, that time is one year. For felonies, depending on the type of charge involved, it gets more complicated but can be generally 3-6 years, and sometimes longer.

How long do they have to arraign you?

Despite the Supreme Court ruling that initial appearances that are combined with probable cause hearings must be held within 48 hours of arrest, many jurisdictions provide a 72-hour window for arraignment. This allows for the timely arraignment of defendants nabbed over the weekend.

Can you get charged for something that happened years ago?

A statute of limitations is a law that forbids prosecutors from charging someone with a crime that was committed more than a specified number of years ago. After the time period has run, the crime can no longer be prosecuted, meaning that the accused person is essentially free.

How long can police hold evidence without charges?

How Long Can Police Hold Evidence Without Charges? When the police seize property as evidence, they can hold the property without filing charges until the applicable statute of limitations expires.

Is there a statute of limitations on a criminal case?

Sometimes yes, sometimes no. A case as old as your is probably past the statute of limitations. Cases can conceivably go on forever, although you have a right to speedy trial if…

How long does the district attorney have to keep evidence?

Property that the district attorney needs to prosecute a criminal case may be held as evidence. A defense attorney may submit a request to reclaim property held as evidence before charges are filed or while the case is pending, but the general rule is to hold onto evidence until the case is over or the statute of appeals expires.

Is there a time limit to get recharged for a misdemeanor?

The time limit for the statute tolled when the complaint… if it gets dismissed without prejudice, then yes you can be recharged. Most felonies can be charged up to 6 years (sexual assaults are longer); most misdemeanors can be charged up to 3 years.