If my stepson assaulted me 5 years ago, can I still file charges against him for this?

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If my stepson assaulted me 5 years ago, can I still file charges against him for this?

He broke my jaw and gave me a bloody lip and a black eye. He was trying to go after his mother who had just had back surgery and I was not going to let him assault her. So I got between him and her and he attacked me. I am disabled.

Asked on March 31, 2017 under Criminal Law, Washington

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 7 years ago | Contributor

Unfortunately, it is too late to press charges. The "statute of limitations" defines how long you have to bring charges. It varies by state and by crime. In your state, this type of assault has a statute of limitations of three years, so you are two years too late.


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