How long does it take for a case to be dropped?

As a legal expert with extensive experience in criminal law, I can provide you with a detailed explanation of the factors that influence how long it takes for a case to be dropped. The process can be quite complex and is influenced by a variety of factors, including the nature of the crime, the evidence available, and the legal procedures in place. The Speedy Trial Act In the United States, the Speedy Trial Act is a federal law that sets time limits for the completion of criminal trials. The Act is designed to protect the rights of the accused and to ensure that they are not subjected to prolonged periods of pretrial detention. According to the Act, if a defendant is arrested and not released, the government has a certain period of time to bring the case to trial. **Time Limitations for Misdemeanors and Felonies** For misdemeanors, the time limitation is typically 90 days from the date of arrest. This means that if the prosecution does not bring the case to trial within this period, they may be unable to proceed with the charges. For felonies, the time frame is longer, typically 175 days. However, these are general guidelines, and the actual time frame can be extended under certain circumstances. Waiver of Speedy Trial Rights It's important to note that the defendant can waive their right to a speedy trial. This means that they agree to allow the case to proceed at a slower pace, often because they believe it will be to their advantage. If the defendant waives their rights, the prosecution can take as much time as they need to prepare their case. **Other Factors Affecting the Time to Drop a Case** 1. Strength of the Evidence: If the evidence against the defendant is weak, the prosecution may decide to drop the case sooner rather than risk losing at trial. 2. Negotiations and Plea Bargains: In many cases, the prosecution and defense will negotiate a plea bargain. This can result in the charges being reduced or dropped in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser offense. 3. Court Backlog: The backlog of cases in the court system can also affect the time it takes for a case to be resolved. If the courts are busy, it may take longer for a case to be brought to trial. 4. Complexity of the Case: More complex cases, such as those involving white-collar crime or organized crime, may take longer to investigate and prepare for trial. 5. Resources of the Prosecution: The prosecution's resources can also be a factor. If they are overworked or understaffed, it may take them longer to bring a case to trial. 6. Public Interest: In some cases, the public interest may be a factor in deciding whether to drop a case. If the case is not seen as a priority by the community or the authorities, it may be dropped sooner. 7. Political Considerations: While ideally the legal process should be free from political influence, in some cases, political considerations can affect the decision to drop a case. In conclusion, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how long it takes for a case to be dropped. It depends on a variety of factors, and each case is unique. It's always best to consult with a legal professional who can provide advice based on the specific circumstances of the case.

If speedy trial was not waived, and you were arrested, the only time limitation is speedy trial. 90 days for a misdemeanor or 175 days for a felony. If they do not drop the charge within that time frame they will not be able to change their mind and charge you. Other than that they can take as long as they want.