How To Calculate Rule 600 Law

Rule 600 Calculation:

\[ \text{Days Elapsed} = \text{Current Date} - \text{Filing Date} \] \[ \text{Violation if Days Elapsed > 365 (excluding delays)} \]

Days Elapsed:

Adjusted Days (excluding delays):

Rule 600 Status:

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1. What is Rule 600 Law?

Rule 600 is Pennsylvania's speedy trial rule that requires criminal cases to be brought to trial within 365 days of the filing date, excluding certain delays. Failure to meet this timeline can result in case dismissal.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Rule 600 formula:

\[ \text{Days Elapsed} = \text{Current Date} - \text{Filing Date} \] \[ \text{Adjusted Days} = \text{Days Elapsed} - \text{Excluded Days} \] \[ \text{Violation if Adjusted Days > 365} \]

Where:

\( \text{Filing Date} \) — Date when criminal complaint was filed
\( \text{Current Date} \) — Today's date or date of calculation
\( \text{Excluded Days} \) — Days excluded due to delays (defense requests, court congestion, etc.)
\( \text{Adjusted Days} \) — Net calculable time for Rule 600 purposes

Explanation: The rule ensures defendants' constitutional right to a speedy trial while accounting for legitimate delays in the judicial process.

3. Importance of Rule 600 Calculation

Details: Accurate Rule 600 calculation is crucial for protecting defendants' rights, ensuring timely justice, and determining when cases must be dismissed due to procedural violations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the filing date of the criminal complaint, the current date for calculation, and any excluded days due to approved delays. All dates must be valid.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What types of delays are excluded from Rule 600 calculation?
A: Defense-requested continuances, court congestion, unavailability of essential parties, and other court-approved delays.

Q2: What happens if Rule 600 is violated?
A: The defendant can file a motion to dismiss, and the court must dismiss the case with prejudice if a violation is found.

Q3: Does Rule 600 apply to all criminal cases?
A: Rule 600 applies to most criminal cases in Pennsylvania, though there are some exceptions and special circumstances.

Q4: Can the 365-day period be extended?
A: Yes, for "judicial delay" where the court finds extraordinary circumstances preventing timely trial.

Q5: Who is responsible for tracking Rule 600 time?
A: Both prosecution and defense should monitor Rule 600 time, but ultimately the court oversees compliance.