Legal Question in Criminal Law in Massachusetts

statute of limitations. before or after filed

Does the statute of limitations (felony drug charge) apply after the crime has already been instantiated, or is it just the time to file the complaint?

In specific, if someone is arrested and is released without bail, and never shows up to a pre-trial date, can the case eventually just be thrown out (effectively 6 years hence)?


Asked on 9/23/07, 3:45 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Re: statute of limitations. before or after filed

A person does not "get away" with a crime just by failing to show up to court. Failing to show for a pre-trial date results in a Warrant being issued for that person's arrest and said warrant is good indefinitely and the person is subject to extradition if the country has a treaty with the United States. Furhter, that person will not be released without bail a second time.

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Answered on 9/23/07, 3:57 pm
henry lebensbaum Law Offices of Henry Lebensbaum (978-749-3606)

: statute of limitations. before or after filed

Once a complaint issues, and a person is served and fails to show up, there is a warrant for their arrest, for ever!!!

If you need help, contact me.

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Answered on 9/23/07, 5:36 pm


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