COVID-19 influenced almost every aspect of our lives. So, it is probably no surprise that the pandemic affected the criminal justice system too. Illinois courts have been scrambling to keep up with cases utilizing Zoom or other teleconference technology, however, the court system is still significantly backed up. In response to the pandemic, Illinois temporarily suspended the state’s “speedy trial” law in April of 2020. This law mandates that criminal defendants be tried within 120 days after being taken into custody or 160 days if they are out on bond. Fortunately, the speedy trial law is being reinstated.
Criminal Defendants Have a Right to a Speedy Trial
The Constitution dictates that criminal defendants have certain rights. These rights include the right to know the charges laid against them, the right to be represented by an attorney, and the right to avoid self-incrimination, among others. The Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution states that all criminal defendants have a right to a “speedy and public trial.” The Constitution of the State of Illinois mirrors this statement. However, the speedy trial requirement was suspended due to “extraordinary circumstances” brought on by the pandemic. As concerns over the virus wane, courts are now able to restore this expectation. Unfortunately, many cases are still delayed.
Protecting Your Rights as a Criminal Defendant
If you or a loved one were charged with a criminal offense, it is important to keep in mind that criminal defendants have important rights. An experienced criminal defense attorney can ensure that these rights are not violated.
Contact a McHenry County Criminal Defense Lawyer
Criminal defendants should not be forced to wait months or years in jail before being granted a trial. At Botto Gilbert Lancaster, PC, we believe that criminal defendants deserve an aggressive defense and speedy trial.
If you or someone you care about has been charged with assault, battery, DUI, drug charges, theft, or another criminal offense, contact our Crystal Lake criminal defense attorneys right away. We will help you understand your rights and options under Illinois law and immediately start gathering the evidence needed to build a strong defense against the charges. Our team of knowledgeable legal professionals is equipped to handle everything from a first-time drunk driving charge to felony offenses like murder and sexual assault. We attempt to have criminal charges dismissed whenever possible. If that is not achievable, we aggressively push for the charges to be reduced. If the case goes to trial, we tenaciously advocate for a “not guilty” verdict.
Call 815-338-3838 today and set up a free, confidential consultation to learn more.
Source:
https://www.ilga.gov/commission/lrb/con1.htm
https://abc7chicago.com/illinois-laws-right-to-a-speedy-trial-coroavirus-covid-pandemic/11066981/