What is the statute of limitations for a misdemeanor charge
in Utah?
If you are arrested on a
misdemeanor charge in Utah, you will
probably be released from jail if the case is not filed with the courts
within 72 hours of your arrest. However, even if you are
released, the prosecutor may still file charges if the case is filed
within the statute of limitations period.
For most Utah
misdemeanor charges, a prosecutor can file charges up to two years from
the time the offense is alleged to have been committed.
Negligent
homicide (a class A misdemeanor) has a four-year statute of
limitations. Infractions must be filed within one year from
the
date of violation.
The
statute
of limitations for Utah felonies
is longer. Most felony charges carry a four-year statute of
limitations, but other more serious felonies can be filed at any time.
If you have been accused of a crime or believe that an investigation
may be pending,
Utah criminal
defense attorney Stephen Howard can help. His
record of success in
defending Utah criminal charges includes dismissals or not guilty
verdicts in cases including
aggravated
robbery,
aggravated
assault,
burglary,
forgery,
theft,
DUI,
drug
charges,
domestic
violence, and many more.
Contact us now to
schedule an initial consultation.

- Selected Victories
Not Guilty - Client was charged with aggravated assault for alleged attack using broken bottle as a weapon. Despite the testimony of numerous prosecution witnesses, thorough defense investigation to support a self-defense claim resulted in acquittal by jury at trial.
Dismissed - Minor in possession charge (MIP) was dismissed by prosecutor when defense analysis demonstrated that the police had failed to obtain necessary evidence against client. Police had raided a large party involving underage drinking. Several individuals were charged, but police did not obtain evidence showing that client had personally consumed or possessed alcohol. Case was dismissed.
Expunged - Client with prior conviction for violent felony was ineligible for expungement through the courts. A successful 2-step reduction restored expungement eligibility and ultimately led to the court's decision to grant the requested expungement.
Probation - Client
charged with aggravated robbery based on allegations he entered a store with a gun and mask and demanded cash. Client confessed to police before hiring a defense attorney. Defense mitigation efforts resulted in a negotiated resolution that removed life in prison as a possibility, and secured a probation sentence from the court.
- Recent
Posts
What
should I do if I am arrested for DUI? - Many DUI cases begin as minor traffic stops. But the consequences of a DUI conviction are much more serious than an ordinary traffic citation. If you are pulled over for a suspected DUI, you have specific important constitutional and statutory rights that can protect your. . . .
Can
I handle a Utah misdemeanor from out-of-state? - Even if you do not intend to take your case to trial, a misdemeanor criminal offense in Utah can require multiple court appearances to reach a resolution. If you have been charged with a crime in Utah, but are not a Utah resident, an experienced criminal defense attorney may be able to help you resolve
the case without returning to the state. . . .

Successfully defending against criminal prosecution requires more than just an 'aggressive' defense. The best defense attorneys understand that a sophisticated defense requires a thorough understanding of a variety of nuanced legal issues, real experience in the courtroom, good negotiation skills, and much more. Fighting hard is good. Fighting smart is better....
Strategy
»

Finding the right criminal defense lawyer for you Utah criminal case will be one of the most important decision you make. Before hiring any lawyer, there are a number of important factors to consider. The person you select as your criminal defense attorney will be responsible to defend your case and protect your rights....
Experience
»

A Utah criminal prosecution can result in a lifetime of consequences. Beyond jail and prison, a conviction can affect many areas of life, including employment, housing, finances, family, and much more. Never plead guilty without first consulting with an experienced criminal attorney. Understanding what is at stake is the first step....
Consequences
»

Never give up hope. Being charged with a crime is not the same as being convicted. And it is usually not the end of the world. While the consequences of a criminal charge can be serious, there are often several options and strategies for handling your case. Understanding your options and how an experienced criminal lawyer can help....
Reasons to Hope
»
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Serving
Salt
Lake,
Davis,
Weber,
Utah,
Cache,
Tooele,
Summit,
Box
Elder, and
Wasatch
Counties, and all of Utah.
Attorney Stephen Howard practices as part of the Canyons Law Group, LLC and
Stephen W. Howard, PC.
Offices in Salt Lake and Davis Counties
560 South 300 East, Suite 200, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
952 S. Main St., Suite A, Layton, UT 84041
Call now to arrange for a confidential initial consultation with an experienced and effective Utah criminal defense lawyer.
In Salt Lake City, call 801-449-1409.
In Davis County, call 801-923-4345.
Stephen W. Howard, PC
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