Last updated November 2025
⏳ Think the Case Is Too Old? Think Again
If you or someone you love is facing a rape or sexual assault allegation in Florida — even from years ago — don’t assume it’s too late to prosecute. Florida law allows some sexual battery cases to be filed decades later, depending on the facts.
Whether you’re under investigation or have been charged, you need a lawyer who understands Florida’s sexual battery statute of limitations — and how to attack stale or delayed accusations before they ruin your life.
At Michael White, P.A., we defend people accused of sexual battery, rape, and historical sexual assault across Fort Lauderdale and South Florida. As a former prosecutor, I’ve seen these cases from both sides — and I know how to expose weak claims, missing evidence, and unfair delays.
⚖️ What Is the Statute of Limitations for Rape in Florida?
Under Florida Statute § 775.15, the time limit for filing a rape charge depends on:
🕒 General Timeframes
Within 4 years of the offense (adults)
Within 8 years if the victim was between 16–18
No time limit if:
The victim was under 16
DNA evidence identifies the defendant
The case involves force or threat and was reported within 72 hours
Florida law is complex in these cases — and recent changes mean older allegations can suddenly come back to life.
⚖️ What Is the Statute of Limitations for Rape in Florida?
Under Florida Statute § 775.15, the time limit for filing a rape charge depends on:
🕒 General Timeframes
Within 4 years of the offense (adults)
Within 8 years if the victim was between 16–18
No time limit if:
The victim was under 16
DNA evidence identifies the defendant
The case involves force or threat and was reported within 72 hours
Florida law is complex in these cases — and recent changes mean older allegations can suddenly come back to life.
🛡️ How We Defend Statute-Based Sex Crime Cases
🔹 Challenge the timing of the report and whether it meets statutory criteria
🔹 File motions to dismiss based on expired limitations
🔹 Attack the credibility of delayed disclosures
🔹 Discredit forensic or hearsay evidence introduced years later
🔹 Push for early dismissal to avoid the stigma of trial
These cases are high-stakes, emotionally charged — and often legally flawed.
✅ Why Clients Hire Michael White
✅ Former prosecutor with experience in historical sex crime prosecution and defense
✅ Strategic use of pretrial motions to suppress or dismiss
✅ Trusted by professionals, public figures, and working adults
✅ Discreet, aggressive, and proactive defense
📞 Accused of Rape in Florida? You May Still Have a Defense
Even if the case is years old, the law still applies — and so do your rights.
Learn more about our approach to defending sex crime charges here:
👉 Sex Crimes Defense in Fort Lauderdale
📲 Call (954) 270-0769 or schedule your confidential consultation
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🧑⚖️ Is there a statute of limitations on rape in Florida?
Yes — but there are major exceptions, especially when the victim was a minor or DNA evidence exists.
📄 Can I be charged even if the accusation is from years ago?
Yes. Some sex crime cases in Florida are exempt from time limits. We challenge the timeline and filing authority in every case.
📉 What if there’s no physical evidence left?
That can help your case — but prosecutors often rely on testimony alone. We expose credibility issues and inconsistencies.
⚖️ Can a statute of limitations defense get my case dismissed?
Absolutely. If the case was filed too late, we can file a motion to dismiss before trial.
🚨 Do I need a lawyer if I haven’t been arrested yet?
Yes. Early intervention is crucial — especially in delayed-report sex crime cases. We often prevent charges from being filed at all.