Once one is charged with a crime, forces may pull both ways. On the one hand, a defendant might want to move the proceedings quickly, perhaps with the hope of allowing the government less time to prepare or putting an end to the nervous process of awaiting the outcome. On the other hand, "aging" a case is sometimes helpful, whether because of the extra preparation time, because the prosecution's zeal for the case might diminish, or because of some other factor. Here you'll learn about the speedy trial right, continuances, and other factors that play into the timing of a criminal case.
The Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and the constitutions of the individual states guarantee the right to a speedy trial.
Continuances in Criminal Cases
A continuance is a grant of additional preparation time before or during a trial.
How Long Do Criminal Cases Take?
The amount of time that passes between an arrest and the filing of charges on the one hand, and trial or entry of a guilty or “no contest” plea on the other, varies widely from case to case.
Should I Ask for a Speedy Trial?
Many defendants want to enforce their right to a speedy trial. But lawyers frequently advise their clients to agree to move slower. Why?
If I Face Criminal Charges and a Civil Lawsuit, Can I Postpone Either Case?
Many kinds of criminal acts can be the basis of civil lawsuits for damages (money).