Are There Statutes of Limitations on Sexual Abuse Crimes in Washington?
Yes, there are time limitations on when you can both prosecute and sue for sexual abuse in Washington, and they are rather complicated. It is very important to keep the statute of limitations in mind when thinking about whether or not to pursue a case. It is also important to remember that the criminal statute of limitations (SOL) that applies is the one that was in place at the time of the crime itself. So while it may have been lengthened in the time since, if the limitation ran out, it can NOT be reactivated (whether this is the case with civil litigation is still being debated). It would be wise to consult a lawyer familiar with Washington law as to what rule applies to your case and if your time limit has expired.
