speedy trial
speedy trial. Criminal procedure. A trial that the prosecution, with reasonable diligence, begins promptly and conducts expeditiously. • The Sixth Amendment secures the right to a speedy trial. In deciding whether an accused has been deprived of that right, courts generally consider the length of the delay, the reason for the delay, and the prejudice to the accused. [Cases: Criminal Law 577.1–577.16. C.J.S. Criminal Law §§ 578–621.]