Legal Question in Criminal Law in Pennsylvania

Statue of Limitations

I was charged with 2 counts of bad checks in 8/2005 for about $400. I missed a hearing due to me moving an never receiving notice of my hearing. I was then arrested on a bench warrant in 12/2006. I have contacted the DA several times and never received a hearing. I just got notice that I have a hearing in county court next month. My question is, has the statue of limitations been surpassed or my right to a speedy trial been violated?


Asked on 8/31/08, 1:02 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Daniel Cevallos Cevallos & Wong, LLP

Re: Statue of Limitations

I am always surprised at how many people misunderstand the statute of limitations or right to a speedy trial. There is no statute of limitations problems, because you were CHARGED back in 8/2005. And it's doubtful your right to speedy trial has been violated, because the time you ignored the tickets will not be counted against the state. I mean, if you could assert speedy trial just by running and ignoring your obligation to appear, then no one would go to court. Come on now: think realistically, and contact a private criminal defense attorney to deal with this properly.

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Answered on 8/31/08, 4:45 pm


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