Bill > HF647

This bill modifies existing law regarding the venue (location) for criminal trials when the county of an offense cannot be easily determined. Specifically, the bill establishes a clear hierarchy for determining where a criminal trial should be held: first, if possible, the trial will be held in the county of the victim's residence. If there is no victim, or the victim is not an Iowa resident, or their residence cannot be established, the trial will then be held in the county where the person charged with the offense resides. For victims that are not natural persons (like corporations or organizations), the trial can be held in any county where that victim has a physical presence. In cases with multiple victims, the trial can be held in any county where a victim resides, with priority given to the county of residence of a natural person victim. This legislation provides a clear, structured approach to determining the appropriate venue for criminal trials when traditional methods of venue determination are unclear, ensuring that trials are conducted in a location with a meaningful connection to the case.

Judiciary (H)

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=HF647