The statute of limitations for a child abuse offence is the life of the child victim. This means that if the victim of the abuse is alive then the abuser can be charged and prosecuted.

Answer Applies to: California
Replied: 11/14/2011

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Anyone can be charged with just about anything. The question is can the prosecution prove the case. The statue of limitation for molestation is different from other types of cases. Contact a criminal defense lawyer to discuss options for the person.

Answer Applies to: California
Replied: 11/10/2011

Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.

The statutes of limitations vary depending on the particular offense that is charged. Certain offenses that carry life sentences have no statute of limitations. In some cases it is significant if the victim is 28 years old so you need to contact law enforcement as soon as possible to discuss your case.

Answer Applies to: California
Replied: 11/10/2011

Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.

With some exceptions, the statute of limitations starts running upon the victim's 18th birthday. You would need to consult with your attorney and, after understanding the process, contact the District Attorneys office. It should be very difficult for you in the short term, however long term it might help with your healing. In addition to consulting with an attorney it might not be a bad idea to work with a doctor as well.

Answer Applies to: California
Replied: 11/10/2011

Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.

Unfortunately, it appears that you may not be able to bring a CIVIL action as you said you are 26. The civil statute of limitations is 8 years after you reach majority. However, it does appear that there may still be a statute of limitaions running until your 28th birthday criminally. So, see a cop. You can potentially obtain psychological relief / damages for this type of crime.[penal code 1202.4(f)(3)(F).

Answer Applies to: California
Replied: 11/10/2011

Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.

Each state has a different statute of limitations on molests.

Answer Applies to: California
Replied: 11/10/2011

Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.