How Long After an Offense Can the Prosecutor Reopen a Dismissed Case
My question involves criminal law for the state of: florida
about the situation below- I lied about my name 20 years ago (dui and speeding). Misdameanor charges. Never showed up for court and they dismissed it without prejudice. Can they reopen it if they find out now (19 years later) my real name? Can they charge me?
Re: Can They Reopen a Dismissed Case 19 Years Old?
You've already been charged, even if you lied about your name.
Whether or not they can reinstate the case depends upon the manner of dismissal and, possibly, whether your absence from the state following dismissal tolls the statute of limitations. Some states have provisions for the dismissal of cases where a fugitive is not expected to be located that allow charges to be reinstated at any time.