How Long do You Have to Press Charges for Assault?
Often survivors want to know if they can press charges in cases of intimate partner and sexual violence. It is important to know that you have rights regarding the criminal justice system and whether or not you would like to pursue a case against an abuser (see What to Expect in Court). There are two avenues to consider – criminal or civil. In both types of cases, there are statutes of limitations – a limited amount of time for you to press charges or file a claim.
Criminal Charges
| Type of Claim | Time Limit | Statutory Code |
|---|---|---|
| Felony sexual offense or misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment in a penitentiary | None | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. §§ 5-106 |
| Other misdemeanor sex offense | None | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. §§ 5-117 |
Civil Claims
| Type of Claim | Time Limit | Statutory Code |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Claim | 3 years | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. §§ 5-101 |
| Assault, Libel or Slander | 1 year | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. §§ 5-105 |
| Battery | 3 years | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. §§ 5-101 |
| Civil child sexual abuse | 7 years after the age of majority (18 years old) | Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. §§ 5-117 |