STATUE OF LIMITATIONS

[Bodie69]

Jurisdiction

Pennsylvania

After 16 years I was reminded by a traffic officer that a warrant was issued for my arrest for shoplifting. I contacted the magistrate office to clear things up and I was instructed to get fingerprinted before a court date can be set.
This charge is a nightmare which limits me on a professional level and prohibits me from progressing higher in any profession.
What does the law state about Statue of Limitation? How can I get this charge dismissed to allow me a full pursuit of happiness.

Thanks in advance

 

[mightymoose]

The statute of limitations has to do with the time the government has to bring the charge against you. They apparently did that long ago and issued a warrant. The statute of limitations is not going to help you here.
You need to appear in court and let things play out. What works in your favor is that so many years later any evidence against you is likely lacking, including witnesses who would testify against you. A prosecutor may choose to let the case go rather than bother with such a petty issue after so long and having to track people down.
They might also offer you some kind of agreement... You can discuss your options with a defense attorney. You could come away unscathed, but not by the time limit.

 

[adjusterjack]

Hire an attorney ASAP and don't talk to anybody else about this because the minute you start talking you'll say enough to get yourself convicted.

Watch this video:

 

[zddoodah]

What does the law state about Statue of Limitation?

In the criminal context, a statute of limitations is a law that says how long after a crime is committed the state has to initiate prosecution. Statutes of limitations have nothing to do with warrants.

How can I get this charge dismissed

Since your post provides no indication about the status of any criminal prosecution, there is no way for anyone here to answer this question intelligently. You should enlist the assistance of a local criminal defense attorney.