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
Dismissed - Charges of insurance fraud were brought when investigators found reason to believe that client's claim of injury was fraudulent. Client was seen kicking a soccer ball, and investigators concluded that the injury claim was false. By obtaining medical records and other administrative records, and by pointing out to the prosecutor that the alleged injury interferred with the client's ability to lift - not his ability to kick a ball - the prosecutor agreed to dismiss the case.
Dismissed -
Client was facing multiple cases involving first-degree felony drug distribution charges for allegedly selling to a confidential informant. Defense analysis of the case revealed fatal flaws in the prosecution case that ultimately resulted in a complete dismissal of all cases and charges.
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.
Dismissed at Preliminary Hearing
- Client
charged with aggravated robbery and facing life in prison. Full case analysis and consultation with client allowed the development of a strong defense strategy. Effective cross-examination of the alleged victim at the preliminary hearing resulted in an outright dismissal of all charges by the judge.

You want the best defense. Agressive is good. But results ultimately are what really matter. Creating an effective strategy for defending against criminal prosecution requires a thorough understanding of statutes, case law, and evidentiary and procedural rules. A successful outcome is more likely when....
Strategy
»

Our criminal defense lawyers have represented clients facing some of the most serious felony charges on the books in Utah. Whether you are facing prosecution for felony or misdemeanor charges, you can be assured that our attorneys have the experience, knowledge, and determination necessary to help you achieve the results you need. Choosing the best defense attorney for your case will be one of the most important decisions you make....
Experience
»

Even a "minor" misdemeanor carries the potential for jail time and significant fines. The direct penalties and collateral consequences of a felony conviction are even more severe. Understanding these consequences is critical as you make decisions relating to your case. Even in a misdemeanor case, you should not....
Consequences
»

Being charged with a crime is not the same as being convicted. But just being charged can affect more than you may have imagined - jail, job, family, bills, rent or mortgage. It can feel like everything has gone wrong, and may you wonder if anything can go right. But facing criminal prosecution does not mean giving up hope....
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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