Speedy Trial Clause Law and Legal Definition
Speedy trial clause is a clause in the U.S. Constitution that grants a right of speedy trial to the defendants in a criminal proceeding. This right to speedy trial is guaranteed through the sixth amendment to the constitution. The object of this clause is to ensure that defendants are not subjected to unreasonably lengthy captivity prior to a fair trail
In Barker v. Wingo, [407 U.S. 514 (U.S. 1972)], the Supreme Court developed four test that needs to be considered in a speedy trial claim. They are:
1. length of the delay;
2. reasons for the delay;
3. defendants assertion for the right to a speedy trial; and
4 prejudice to the defendant.
