HI SCR208

Requests the Judiciary urge Family Court, District Court, and Circuit Court to prioritize victim and witness rights to speedy trials, including consideration of substantial adverse impact from postponements, in cases involving sexual offenses under part V of chapter 707, Hawaii Revised Statutes.

Requests the Circuit Court minimize minor involvement in criminal proceedings by considering the minor's age and potential adverse impact of delays when deciding whether to grant continuances.

Limits continuances to no more than three by either party unless good cause is shown, and requires trials to commence within twelve months of charge or indictment unless good cause is shown.

Notes that sexual offense victims may suffer depression, emotional distress, and post-traumatic stress disorder from prolonged court proceedings, with young victims being particularly vulnerable.

Identifies Hawaii as one of few states lacking a "speedy trial" statute for victims, despite many states having enacted such protections.