NCJ Number
102059
Date Published
1986
Length
47 pages
Annotation
These American Bar Association guidelines direct police, These American Bar Association guidelines direct police, prosecutors, defense counsel, and courts in procedures for reducing the adverse effects of case continuances and delays on crime victims and witnesses.
Abstract
Guidelines for police enhance the speed, efficiency, and thoroughness with which cases are handled in their initial stages, so as to reduce the need for continuances in later stages. Police are guided in measures to facilitate victim and witness participation in case processing. Prosecutorial guidelines intend to limit the occasions when prosecutors request continuances, particularly when they would adversely affect victims and witnesses. Prosecutors are also instructed in countering defense requests for continuances without compelling reasons. Although defense guidelines do not involve the affirmative steps required of police, prosecutors, and judges, they instruct defense counsel not to discourage victim-witness testimony or frustrate witness participation in case processing. Courts are guided in asserting leadership to control the trial calendar so as to avoid delays, continuances, and extended recesses except for good cause. Supplementary commentary on selected guidelines.