Expert: Robin Sexton - 6/14/2009

Question
Is there a statue of limitation for someone who violated probation on a drug charge,left the state and hasn't been in trouble in ten years?

Answer
James,

Statute of limitations deals with the time the state has to file charges against someone, not the time to arrest.  So in your situation the violation of probation is the offense.  Presumably charges were filed shortly there after, probably a bench warrant or similar order.  So charges filed therefore statute of limitation is not the issue.  Your question could be how long will the warrant remain.  That is jurisdiction specific, some places routinely purge old non violent warrants, other remain for years.
If this is an issue, contact an attorney in the jurisdiction where the warrant may be and have them check the status and the best way to clear it up.

Hope this helps and good luck

robin