Terms Used In Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure 578

  • Bail: Security given for the release of a criminal defendant or witness from legal custody (usually in the form of money) to secure his/her appearance on the day and time appointed.
  • Obligation: An order placed, contract awarded, service received, or similar transaction during a given period that will require payments during the same or a future period.
  • Trial: A hearing that takes place when the defendant pleads "not guilty" and witnesses are required to come to court to give evidence.

A.  Except as otherwise provided in this Chapter, no trial shall be commenced nor any bail obligation be enforceable:

(1)  In capital cases after three years from the date of institution of the prosecution;

(2)  In other felony cases after two years from the date of institution of the prosecution; and

(3)  In misdemeanor cases after one year from the date of institution of the prosecution.

B.  The offense charged shall determine the applicable limitation.

Acts 2006, No. 123, §1, eff. June 2, 2006.