What term is used for the period in which charges must be filed to avoid dismissal of the case?

The term "statute of limitations" refers to the legally defined time period within which a person must file charges or initiate legal proceedings for a certain type of claim or offense. Once this time period expires, the legal right to bring the case is generally dismissed, meaning that the individual can no longer seek legal remedies or enforce rights in court regarding that particular issue. This concept is essential in maintaining order and ensuring that cases are brought forward while evidence is still fresh and available, which serves the interests of justice.

For instance, in civil cases, different types of claims have varying statutes of limitations, often ranging from a few years to several decades, depending on the nature of the case. In criminal law, these limitations also vary by the severity of the crime; more serious offenses may have longer periods before charges must be brought.

The other terms provided do not relate to this concept. A statute of frauds pertains to certain types of contracts that must be in writing to be enforceable. A bill of attainder is a legislative act that singles out and punishes an individual without a trial. Parole involves the conditional release of a prisoner before the completion of their sentence and does not relate to the filing of charges or the judicial process.