CHAPTER 32A. SPEEDY TRIAL

Art. 32A.01. TRIAL PRIORITIES

• Preference in Trials:

  • The trial of a criminal action is prioritized over civil case trials as much as practicable.

  • A criminal trial involving a defendant who is detained in jail is prioritized even more than other criminal trials.

• Special Considerations:

  • If the alleged victim is younger than 14 years, their case is given preference over all other cases (civil or criminal), unless extraordinary circumstances arise that warrant otherwise.

  • Trials involving defendants determined to be restored to competency under Article 46B.084 are also prioritized. This provision applies unless it conflicts with the child victim preference mentioned above.

• Legislative History:

  • Established by Acts of 1977 during the 65th Legislature.

  • Amended in 2015 by the 84th Legislature, with changes effective from September 1, 2015.

  • Further amendments were made in 2017 by the 85th Legislature, effective September 1, 2017.