Purpose

• Statutes of limitations in Texas and other states arise from statutory law rather than common law, hence the term. "Seventh Circuit Review, Volume 1, Issue 1" reveals that the basis for limitations both in criminal and civil actions. Unreasonable delays in prosecutions or presentation of claims might hamper an effectual defense due to a number of possible circumstances, such as lost evidence, unavailability of witnesses or faded memories.
  
  

Texas Criminal Law

• The Texas Code of Criminal Procedure (Chapter 12, Article 12.01) details the time limitations for criminal prosecutions. Some serious crimes, such as murder, manslaughter and sexual assault, have no limitation. Prosecutions for felonies must commence within three to 10 years, depending on the offense. Prosecutions for misdemeanors must begin within two years of the date that the offense was committed.
  
  

Texas Civil Law

• Statutes of limitations for civil claims in Texas, as stated in the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code (Chapter 16, Sub-chapter A), range from one to five years, depending on the type of legal injury on which a claim is based.