What is the time limit for prosecuting minor crimes?

The time limit for prosecuting minor crimes in New South Wales is typically 6 months. This period is established to ensure that minor offenses are addressed promptly while evidence is still fresh and witnesses are available. Delays in prosecution can lead to difficulties in gathering evidence, which might hinder a fair trial or the pursuit of justice.

In most cases concerning summary offenses, the law mandates that charges must be filed within this 6-month window. This time limit aims to balance the rights of the accused with the public interest in the effective administration of justice. For more serious offenses, such as indictable offenses, the prosecution timeframe may differ significantly, reflecting the complexity and gravity of those cases.