HI SR183

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

Requests the Judiciary urge Circuit Court to minimize minor involvement in criminal proceedings involving minors as victims or witnesses of physical abuse by limiting continuances to no more than three per party unless good cause is shown.

Requires courts to consider the age of minor victims or witnesses and potential adverse impacts from trial delays when deciding whether to grant continuances.

Requires trials to commence within twelve months of charge or indictment unless good cause is shown.

Addresses Hawaii's lack of a "speedy trial" statute for victims, noting that prolonged court proceedings can cause depression, emotional distress, and post-traumatic stress disorder in victims, particularly young victims.