Ronald S. Chapman Reacts to FL Supreme Court’s Revision of Speedy Trial Rule

WEST PALM BEACH, Florida — Criminal defense attorney Ronald S. Chapman underscores the impact of the Florida Supreme Court’s recent decision to amend Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.191, as laid out in In Re: Amendments to Rule 3.191 (SC2022‑1123). These changes, which also affect Rule 3.134, took effect on July 1, 2025.

• New clock start point: The speedy trial countdown now begins when formal charges are filed, instead of at arrest.
• Expanded trial window: After a speedy trial demand, courts must now schedule trial within 5 to 60 days (up from 5 to 45 days).
• Mandatory, extended recapture period: If the state misses the deadline, once the defendant files a Notice of Expiration, the state has 30 days (up from 10) to bring the case to trial.
• Dismissal consequences updated: Dismissals under the rule are now without prejudice, allowing re-filing—unless the defendant’s constitutional speedy trial right is violated, in which case dismissal may be with prejudice.

Defendants’ Rights at a Crossroads: Vigilance Required

Chapman stresses the profound implications for accused individuals: “By shifting the clock’s starting line to formal charging, these amendments grant prosecutors more leeway in investigation, but they also make defense alertness more vital than ever,” he explained.

He adds that missing statutory deadlines now carries the potential for a case dismissal, yet with caveats: dismissals are typically temporary unless a constitutional violation is proven, illustrating the importance of a proactive defense strategy:

• Filing a Demand for Speedy Trial becomes a critical move to preserve rights.
• Monitoring the recapture window propels the case or potentially secures dismissal if the state stumbles.
• Asserting constitutional speedy trial claims may still be necessary for final dismissal and the prevention of re-prosecution.

“These rule changes heighten opportunity and risk,” Chapman added. “Defense counsel must act fast and firmly because waiting simply isn’t an option.”

For more information about the new Rule 3.191 or to schedule a confidential consultation, contact Ronald S. Chapman, P.A. at (561) 832‑4348 or visit https://justiceflorida.com.

About Ronald S. Chapman, P.A.

Ron Chapman has 35 years of experience as a criminal defense lawyer. He represents people accused of committing a wide range of crimes in both State and Federal Court in Florida. Those crimes include DUI, battery, economic crimes such as theft and dealing in stolen property, animal abuse, traffic crimes such as reckless driving, murder, manslaughter, crimes against children, federal crimes involving guns and drugs, crimes against the elderly, appeals, and violations of probation.

If you or someone you know requires the assistance of a proven criminal defense attorney, look no further than the law firm of Ronald S. Chapman. Call him today at (561) 832-4348 or visit his website at https://www.justiceflorida.com/. His professional team is available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.