Legal Question in Criminal Law in Kansas

Child molestation

I need to know what the statue of limitation is on filing criminal charges in a child molestation case. Occured when minor was 7, she is now 16.


Asked on 11/27/02, 4:56 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Anthony Smith LawSmith

Re: Child molestation

Unless the abuse was ongoing after she reached age 11, it may be too late for criminal charges, unless it meets certain criteria. The prosecuting attorney for your district, has discretion as to whter to file a criminal suit. A private individual does not file a criminal suit.

As to a civil suit, the statute of limitation has not run. The child can either sue now through a representative or on their own after reaching the age of majority.

Was the abuse reported to the authorities? Memories fade a witnesses retire or move away over time. Therefore, it is often better to pursue a matter sooner, as to preserve evidence.

Good luck, Please let me know if I can help.

Tony Smith

(816) 537-9770

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Answered on 12/04/02, 4:23 pm


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