Bill > HB5438

This bill amends the Code of Criminal Procedure in Michigan to provide certain definitions, such as "abscond," "nonappearance," and "without unnecessary delay," and to establish a time period of 18 months for the disposition of criminal charges, with exceptions that can toll the time period, such as explicit or implicit waiver by the defendant, delays attributable to the defendant, or delays necessary to accommodate victims' requests. If the time period is not met and none of the exceptions apply, the charges must be dismissed without prejudice. The bill also makes it the responsibility of the court to ensure that judicial or docket delays do not result in case dismissal under this provision.