What is a "statute of limitations" defense?

Answer by  Dean (4035)

The defense would argue that the time allowed for the crime to be prosecuted has run out and so the crime is no longer prosecutable. Statute of limitations varies, depending on the crime and state, and is somewhat complex when it comes to gauging how much time has passed.

Answer by  patti (29325)

Some crimes must be prosecuted within a specific period of time. A SOL defense would be "Oh, that happened three years ago, and the SOL is two years, so you're a year late prosecuting me." Depending on where the accused was and when factors in and could make a difference.