NCJ Number
70144
Date Published
1980
Length
211 pages
Annotation
The fifth report on the implementation of the Speedy Trial Act of 1974 statistically summarizes the experience of the U.S. district courts operating under the provisions of Title I of the Speedy Trial Act from July 1, 1976 to June 30, 1979.
Abstract
It analyzes the experiences of the district courts in meeting the time limits specified under the act for the following intervals in the criminal trial process: arrest to indictment, indictment to arraignment, arraignment to trial, and conviction to sentencing. Appendixes constituting the bulk of the report contain comprehensive statistical data on each district court's experience in meeting the time limits specified for the four intervals during the 3-year period. Incidences of excludable delay during the period covered are also appendaed. The report analyzes the degree of compliance achieved by district courts for each interval in meeting the gradually decreased time intervals specified by the Speedy Trial Act. Other sections of the text discuss (1) the effect of the Speedy Trial Act on the status of criminal dockets; (2) the incidence of and reasons for periods of delay; (3) the percentage of defendants detained in custody 90 days or less prior to trial, dismissal, or entry of plea; (4) cases disposed of by plea or trial, and (5) the impact of the Speedy Trial Act on costs, juror utilization, criminal trials, indictments, conviction rates, and the civil caseload.