District of Columbia Statutes of Limitations

Welcome to FindLaw's section on the District of Columbia statutes of limitations, covering the time limits imposed on both criminal and civil actions in D.C.'s courts. Statutes of limitations ensure a relatively efficient court system and help prevent charges or lawsuits being threatened indefinitely. For instance, most criminal charges in the District must be filed against a suspect within roughly three to six years of the date of the crime. Exceptions include sexual abuse (15 years) and first- or second-degree murder (no limits). Most civil lawsuits, meanwhile, must be filed within three years of the alleged offense. Click on a link below to learn more about Washington, D.C.'s statues of limitations.