What is a demand for speedy trial and is it a good idea?
A demand for speedy trial requires the court to hold a calendar call and set trial within a defined window afterward. Following the 2025 amendment, reporting indicates that window extends up to 60 days from the calendar call, where it was previously 45.
The demand is a binding declaration. Filing it certifies that the defense has diligently investigated, is prepared, and is ready to go to trial on short notice. A demand filed by a defense that isn't actually ready can be stricken — and the consequence of that is worse than not filing.
When it makes sense: where the State's case is weak and unlikely to improve, where a key State witness is unlikely to appear, where the defense is genuinely prepared, or where a client in custody needs resolution.
When it doesn't: where discovery is incomplete, where depositions haven't been taken, or where testing is pending. Forcing trial before you know the case is a way to lose it.
This is a decision for counsel with the full file, not a request a client should push for on principle.
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