The statute of limitations is the time an individual or corporation has to file a lawsuit against you. The statute of limitations sets a limit on the time to file a judgment so you do not need to fear the risk of prosecution for an indefinite period of time. The statute of limitations also encourages that a lawsuit be filed in a timely manner, when the evidence available for the case will be easily accessible. Each state sets its own statute of limitations. For example, the statute of limitations for a written contract is four years in Pennsylvania. Unless unique circumstances exist in your case, the statute of limitations for a bad check written over 15 years ago has likely expired. However, you should discuss your case with a Pennsylvania attorney to determine if the other party has the legal right to file a case against you.