Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Re: Statute of limitations in California for drug trafficking

Statutes of limitation govern the time in which a suspect can be charged with a crime. Your question is about someone who has already been charged, so the limitation period only matters if it had already expired fourteen years ago when charges were filed. This rarely happens.

There is probably a warrant outstanding for this person's arrest, and warrants never expire. They remain in effect until the subject surrenders, is apprehended or dies. Because law enforcement agencies are networked and are aware of warrants from other jurisdictions, even being pulled over for a traffic violation or trying to pass through customs will usually result in the subject's arrest.

Re: Statute of limitations in California for drug trafficking

I would add to Mr. Huffman said that if this case has just been lying around on the docket, as opposed to the subject being a fugitive from justice, their could be speedy trial issues which could support an attempt at dismissal. So, if this avenue offers any promise, it would be prudent to contact a lawyer in the LA area, such as Mr. Hoffman, and see if this situation is ripe for an attempt to get rid of the charge, once and for all.

Re: Statute of limitations in California for drug trafficking

Warrants are forever, and you are lucky you haven't been taken into custody yet. With computerization in police work, any traffic stop in the US could get you cuffed and transported to a very unhappy judge. Time to take responsibility for actions, and get this handled before that happens. Contact me if interested in doing it right.