Bill > S04765

This bill amends the New York Criminal Procedure Law to improve the timely scheduling of criminal trials by making several important changes to the speedy trial rules. The bill modifies the existing law to ensure more efficient court proceedings by establishing stricter requirements for trial readiness and scheduling. Key provisions include requiring courts to rule on whether adjournment periods count towards trial time limits, mandating that courts place trial-ready cases on the calendar within ten days of a defendant's request, and requiring prosecutors to file statements of trial readiness by affidavit when not in court. The bill also introduces new requirements such as allowing defendants to request an adjournment to a specific date when prosecutors are not ready for trial, and ensuring that when both parties are ready for trial, the court must schedule the trial within ten days unless special circumstances exist. Additionally, the bill updates language to use gender-neutral terminology and provides more detailed guidance on calculating time periods for different types of criminal actions, such as those involving felony complaints, misdemeanors, or reduced indictments. The overall goal is to prevent unnecessary delays in the criminal justice process and ensure that defendants' rights to a timely trial are protected.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4765