Legal Question in Criminal Law in Ohio

The answer generally depends on whether your intention is to instigate prosecution (i.e., a criminal suit) or to "sue" (i.e., civil suit). In Ohio, for example, generally speaking prosecution of an assault is barred unless it is commenced within six years (for a felony) or two years (for a misdemeanor) after the offense is committed. On the civil side, generally speaking a lawsuit would need to be filed within one year of the offense. ORC 2305.111(B).