How Long Will My Criminal Trial Last?

The length of a trial can vary significantly depending on a range of factors. Although there is no set timeline, understanding the factors that influence how long a criminal trial will last can help you be informed and provide clarity during this uncertain time. For more information and legal representation during your case, reach out to an Upper Peninsula criminal defense lawyer today.

What is the Sixth Amendment?

The United States Constitution offers individuals various rights and freedoms. The Sixth Amendment provides criminal defendants with “the right to enjoy a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed…”

While you are guaranteed the right to a “speedy” trial, this only means that your trial must begin promptly, not that there is a time limit for how long it can go on. Under the Speedy Trial Act of 1974, the official indictment must be filed within 30 days of the individual’s arrest, and the trial must commence within 70 days of the indictment being filed.

How Long Will My Criminal Trial Last?

Your criminal trial could be resolved in one day in court or take several months or even years to complete. According to studies, the average felony case in the United States is resolved within 256 days, and misdemeanors in 193 days. However, the actual outcome of the trial will depend on a variety of factors specific to the case including the following.

1. The type of crime: The type and severity of the crime will significantly impact the length of the trial. Felonies, which are more serious crimes, often take longer to process and resolve than misdemeanors which are less severe offenses. For example, a trial for a low-level theft charge may take just one or two days while a murder case could last several months.
2. The complexity of the case: The more complex the case, the longer it will generally take to reach a verdict. Complex cases can involve severe crimes but they are also characterized by complicated legal arguments, several defendants, a large number of witnesses, etc. If the case has straightforward and clear evidence and only involves a few individuals, it is much easier to reach a resolution.
3. Delays: Delays and postponements will also impact the length of the trial. Delays could arise from scheduling conflicts, unexpected illnesses, new evidence being introduced, a backlog of cases in the system, etc.
4. Jury deliberation: Once both the prosecution and defense have made their arguments and called their witnesses, the jury must make its decision. In simpler cases, it could take a few hours or less for the group to come to a unanimous consensus. However, depending on the evidence presented and how complex the case was, this process could last several days or even weeks.

If you are facing criminal charges it is important that you understand the various aspects of your case that can impact the length of the trial. Reach out to a skilled attorney to discuss your situation today.