FREE Case Review (866) 588-0600

Statute of Limitations for Theft Charges in California

In California, the statute of limitations for theft charges varies based on the severity of the crime. For misdemeanor theft, the statute of limitations is one year, while for felony theft, it is generally three years from the date of the offense. However, specific circumstances or the type of theft can extend this period.
Awards & recognition
Collen Clark Published by Collen Clark

Understanding Criminal Statutes of Limitations

According to Legal-Info, criminal statutes of limitations set time limits within which a prosecutor must file charges, ensuring cases remain fresh and evidence reliable [1]. Over time, evidence can be lost or damaged, and witnesses may become unavailable or forget details. These statutes protect defendants from defending against old, potentially unreliable claims and help prosecutors succeed with fresher cases.

The seriousness of the offense affects the statute of limitations. For example, felonies generally have longer time limits than misdemeanors. In California, serious offenses like murder have no statute of limitations, allowing charges to be filed regardless of how much time has passed. Legislators have eliminated time limits for certain serious crimes in response to advocates’ demands for justice for victims.

When Does the Statute of Limitations Clock Start?

The statute of limitations period usually starts when the alleged crime is complete. For instance, if the period for assault is three years, the prosecution has three years from the date of the assault to file charges.

For crimes that span extended periods, the clock starts once the crime ends. Consider a jewelry store robbery where the robbers are arrested a week after fleeing and stashing the stolen goods. The statute of limitations begins when the robbers reach a place of temporary safety, in this case, when they bury the jewels.

Some statutes of limitations don’t start to run until the victim or the police discover the crime (or should have discovered it). This rule often applies to offenses that are often discovered long after they’re over, like forgery and certain types of fraud

Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Theft Charges in California

In California, the statute of limitations (SOL) for theft charges varies based on whether the offense is classified as a misdemeanor or felony:

  • Misdemeanor Theft Charges: One year.
  • Felony Theft Charges: Three years.

According to SCLG, the SOL defines the maximum time prosecutors have to file charges, ensuring that cases are filed promptly to maintain fairness and reliability [2].

Theft Crimes and Their Statute of Limitations

Misdemeanor Theft Offenses
For theft crimes charged as misdemeanors, the statute of limitations is one year. Prosecutors must file charges within this period, or they forfeit the right to prosecute. Examples of misdemeanors include:

  • Petty Theft (Penal Code 484(a))
  • Shoplifting (Penal Code 459.5 PC)
  • Receiving Stolen Property (if valued at $950 or less, Penal Code 496(a))

Felony Theft Offenses
Felony theft charges have a statute of limitations of three years. Prosecutors must file charges within this timeframe. Examples of felony theft crimes include:

  • Grand Theft of a Firearm (value over $950, Penal Code 487(d)(1))
  • 1st-Degree Burglary (Penal Code 459 PC)
  • Robbery (Penal Code 211)

Wobbler Offenses: Theft Crimes That Can Be Charged as Misdemeanors or Felonies

Certain theft crimes in California are classified as “wobblers,” meaning they can be charged either as misdemeanors or felonies based on:

  • Case Details
  • Defendant’s Criminal History

If charged as a misdemeanor, the statute of limitations is one year. If charged as a felony, the SOL extends to three years.

Understanding these time limits is crucial for both defendants and prosecutors to ensure justice is served fairly and promptly.

Related Articles:

See all related personal injury and accident lawsuits our lawyers covered so far.

Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

The Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and are currently accepting new legal challenges in all 50 states.

If you or a loved one was involved with these matters, you should contact our law firm immediately for a free case evaluation. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.

References:

1. https://legal-info.lawyers.com/criminal/criminal-law-basics/california-criminal-statutes-of-limitations.html
2. https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/blog/theft/what-is-the-statute-of-limitations-on-theft-charges-in-california/

Free Confidential Case Evaluation

Verified 100% Secure SiteTo contact us for a free review of your potential case, please fill out the form below or call us toll free 24 hrs/day by dialing: (866) 588-0600.