CA AB2013

Establishes a 3-year pilot project in 3 counties (one small, one medium, one large) requiring courts to determine probable cause at arraignment for out-of-custody defendants charged with misdemeanors who plead not guilty, upon defendant's request.

Allows courts to grant continuances up to 15 court days (instead of the standard 3 days for in-custody defendants) to determine probable cause based on arrest warrants, complaints, and supporting documents.

Permits prosecutors to refile dismissed complaints within 15 days, but a second dismissal for the same offense bars any further prosecution.

Requires the Department of Justice to report to the Legislature by July 1, 2020, on pilot project implementation, including the number of early dismissals resulting from prompt probable cause determinations.

Automatically becomes inoperative on July 1, 2020, and is repealed January 1, 2021, unless extended by subsequent legislation.