How long can you wait in jail before trial?

Last updated on: May 22, 2020
How long can you sit in jail on a felony charge? The prosecution keeps cancelling my husband 's court dates.
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The length of time that someone can be held in jail on a felony charge can vary depending on the specific charge and the laws of the state where the crime was committed. In general, the length of time someone can be held in jail before being convicted of a crime is subject to constitutional limits. The Sixth Amendment to the US Constitution guarantees the right to a speedy trial, which generally means that a defendant must be brought to trial within a reasonable time after being charged. The specific time frame for a "speedy trial" can vary by jurisdiction, but in general, it is considered to be within a few months of being charged. However, in some cases, the prosecution may be able to request and be granted continuances (postponements) of the trial, which can prolong the time a defendant is held in jail before trial. It is important to note that if your husband's court dates are being canceled by the prosecution, you should consult an attorney to discuss your options. The attorney can check if there is any violation of the right to a speedy trial and can file a motion for a speedy trial. It's also important to note that if your husband is being held in jail before trial, he may be able to request bail, which would allow him to be released from jail while awaiting trial. However, the decision to grant bail is up to the judge, and in some cases, defendants may be held without bail if they are considered to be a flight risk or a danger to the community.

01/12/2023