Verified by Licensed Bail Bond Professionals•Last updated: March 2026
Definition: The right to a trial within a specified time period. In Florida, the state must bring a defendant to trial within 90 days for misdemeanors and 175 days for felonies from the date of arrest.
Category: Constitutional Rights · Statute: Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.191 · Source: Florida Legislature
FL Rule 3.191 — Speedy Trial"Every person charged with a crime shall be brought to trial within 90 days of arrest if charged with a misdemeanor, or within 175 days of arrest if charged with a felony."
What Happens If Speedy Trial Is Violated?
If the state fails to bring the defendant to trial within the speedy trial window, the defendant can file a Notice of Expiration of Speedy Trial. The state then has 15 days to bring the case to trial or it is dismissed with prejudice (cannot be refiled).
Impact on Bail
Speedy trial rights are particularly important for defendants who remain in custody because they cannot afford bail. The constitutional protection ensures they are not held indefinitely awaiting trial.