Prosecution for an infraction shall be started within:

In Utah, the statute of limitations for prosecuting an infraction is one year. This timeframe allows law enforcement and the legal system to address minor offenses without losing the opportunity to hold individuals accountable for their actions. The one-year limit is structured to balance the interests of social order and the right of individuals to have a clear repercussion timeline for infractions.

If the timeframe were longer, it could lead to uncertainties for individuals who might not remember the infraction or who may have moved on with their lives. Conversely, setting a shorter period might not provide adequate time for authorities to gather evidence and build a case, ensuring that justice can be effectively served. Thus, understanding that the limit for prosecuting an infraction is one year is crucial for both law enforcement and those subject to potential prosecution.