Domestic abuse victims in New Jersey frequently file reports and seek restraining orders shortly after the incident. However, under N.J.S.A. 2C:1-6, which establishes the statute of limitations for domestic abuse and other criminal offenses, they have up to five years to submit the complaint. Visit this page if you need a domestic violence attorney to help you file a lawsuit.
Adults and adolescents have varied time constraints for filing actions under the law, while some offenses have no time limit for prosecution. Unspecified crimes can be prosecuted within five years of the crime’s commission, while disorderly or petty disorderly individual offenses can be tried within one year. Other offenses may have a statute of limitations of seven years.
What are the criminal statutes?
In New Jersey, some crimes like murder or sexual assault do not have a statute of limitations, making them subject to prosecution at any time. On the other hand, there are time limits for prosecuting other offenses and disorderly person infractions. For most felonies, the statute of limitations is five years in New Jersey. However, for offenses involving disorderly persons, it is only one year. Statutes of limitations are intended to safeguard evidence and facilitate prompt prosecution. The clock begins to run once the offense is committed or when the state receives evidence identifying the suspected offender. If the initial infraction is promptly prosecuted, the Act also permits reduced fines.
Five-year timeline:
Domestic abuse cases in New Jersey have a five-year statute of limitations. However, if the accused is unavailable for prosecution, this time restriction may be extended. The statute of limitations is tolled for teenage victims until they reach the age of 18, giving them more time to submit a complaint. Similarly, if the accused is the subject of another pending action in the state for the same offense, the statute of limitations is suspended.
Victims of domestic violence can seek civil or criminal charges against the perpetrator. Timeliness is critical for prosecution because evidence and witness testimony can deteriorate over time, making the defendant’s case less reliable. Swift action can increase the likelihood of winning justice and restraining orders.
Final thoughts:
If you are a victim of domestic violence, get help immediately. If you need help with defense, domestic violence defense attorneys with experience can call alleged victim testimony into doubt, especially if there are discrepancies or a considerable time lapse between the incident and the prosecution.