Sexual assault and harassment crimes are one of the most sensitive issues in society. In addition to the trauma they experience, victims of such crimes may have many questions about the legal processes. In this article, we will discuss in detail the statute of limitations, which is the period for filing a lawsuit in sexual assault and harassment crimes.
What is the Statute of Limitations in Sexual Assault and Harassment Crimes?
The statute of limitations means that a criminal case is dropped if a certain period of time has passed since the date a crime was committed. In other words, if a lawsuit is not filed within the period specified in the law from the date the crime was committed, the perpetrator can no longer be punished.
Statute of Limitations in Sexual Assault Crimes
• Simple Sexual Assault: If the penalty is determined to be more than 5 years by moving away from the lower limit, the statute of limitations for the case is 15 years. If it is determined to be 5 years, it is 8 years.
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• Aggravated Sexual Assault: The statute of limitations for the case is 20 years.
Statute of Limitations for Sexual Harassment
• Simple Sexual Harassment: The complaint period is 6 months, starting from the date the crime was committed and the perpetrator was learned.
• Aggravated Sexual Harassment: The statute of limitations for the case is 8 years.
Start of the Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations generally starts from the date the crime was committed. However, in some cases, it can start from the date the victim becomes aware of the crime or learns the identity of the perpetrator.
Stop and Restart of the Statute of Limitations
In some cases, the statute of limitations stops or restarts. For example, if the perpetrator flees abroad or hides his/her identity, the statute of limitations stops. When the perpetrator returns to the country or his/her identity is determined, the period starts again.
Sexual Crimes Committed Against Children
The statute of limitations for sexual crimes committed against children may vary and are generally longer. It is important to consult a lawyer to get detailed information on this subject.
Why Are There Such Long Statutes of Limitations?
Victims of sexual assault and harassment crimes may often not be able to file a complaint immediately after the crime due to the trauma they experience. For this reason, the legislature has set long statute of limitations in order to give victims more time.
What Should Victims Do?
People who are victims of sexual assault or harassment should not hide what they have experienced and should definitely contact a lawyer. The lawyer will protect the victim’s rights and assist them in the legal process.
How Can We Help You as Özkök Law Firm?
As Özkök Law Firm, we provide legal support to victims of sexual assault and harassment crimes. If you are facing such a situation, do not hesitate to contact us.