Q: Can an 8-year-old criminal case for unlawful public assistance in Missouri be dismissed?
I'm wondering if a criminal case for the unlawful use of public assistance, covering the years 2017-2021 and filed in Missouri, can be dismissed due to its age. A warrant was issued in August 2024, and I'm unaware of any new developments since then. I'm also seeking a lawyer who may accept monthly payments, as I'm a single mother.
Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
- (916) 704-3009
- View Profile
- Answered
A:
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for prosecuting felonies is generally **three years** from the date of the alleged offense However, certain crimes, such as **stealing public assistance benefits**, may have different time limits. Specifically, under **RSMo Section 570.400**, unlawful receipt of public assistance benefits can be classified as a **Class A misdemeanor** or, under certain conditions, a **Class E felony**. The statute of limitations for misdemeanors in Missouri is typically **one year**, while felonies usually have a **three-year** limit.
Given that a warrant was issued in August 2024 for alleged offenses spanning from 2017 to 2021, it appears that the charges fall within the typical statute of limitations period. Therefore, the case may proceed despite its age. It's important to consult with an attorney who can provide guidance based on the specifics of your situation and help navigate the legal process.
Regarding legal representation, if you are unable to afford an attorney, you may be eligible for assistance from the **Missouri State Public Defender System**. They offer services to indigent clients, and payment for these services is generally required but can be adjusted based on your financial situation. Payments can be made in installments, such as weekly or monthly, depending on what you can afford. citeturn0search1 It's advisable to contact your local public defender's office to apply for services and discuss payment arrangements that suit your circumstances.
Justia Ask A Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get free answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask A Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between Justia and you, or between any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions and you, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask A Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
