Requesting The Judiciary To Urge Courts To Prioritize Victim And Witness Rights To Speedy Trials.
Impact
If enacted, SR183 would potentially transform how various courts in Hawaii handle cases involving victims of sexual offenses. By requesting the judiciary to encourage the Family, District, and Circuit Courts to prioritize the rights of victims, the resolution underscores the importance of minimizing delays in legal proceedings. This could lead to a significant shift in court practices, aiming to limit the number of continuances allowed in cases involving minors to no more than three, which would compel the courts to expedite trials effectively and limit the emotional burden on victims, especially children.
Summary
Senate Resolution 183 (SR183) of the State of Hawaii, introduced during the Thirty-third Legislature in 2025, seeks to enhance the rights of victims and witnesses by urging courts to prioritize their rights to speedy trials. The resolution highlights that victims of sexual offenses often face severe emotional repercussions from prolonged court processes. It specifically points out the vulnerabilities of young victims, who can develop serious psychological issues as a result of their involvement in these proceedings. This resolution is seen as a necessary step because Hawaii currently lacks comprehensive 'speedy trial' statutes that many other states have adopted.
Contention
While the resolution has potential benefits for victims seeking justice, it may also raise questions about the rights of defendants and the judicial process. Critics might argue that hastening trials without sufficient preparation could disadvantage defendants or compromise the integrity of the proceedings. Furthermore, there will be ongoing discussions about how to balance the rights of victims with those of the accused, ensuring fairness in a legal system that must serve both parties. The judicial system's ability to adapt to these new priorities while maintaining due process will be a critical focus of future debates surrounding this resolution.
Requesting The Judiciary To Conduct A Study On Existing Laws, Policies, And Procedures That Are Designed To Assist And Protect Pro Se Parties With Physical And Intellectual Disabilities.
Requesting The Office Of The Administrative Director Of The Courts Of The Hawaii State Judiciary To Collect, Compile, And Share Data On The Assessment Of Fees, Court Costs, Fines, And Restitution In Cases Against Minors.
Urging The Department Of Human Services, Department Of Health, And Judiciary To Prioritize Ensuring That Contracts For Government Services Are Adequately Resourced To Cover The Costs Of Providing Those Services.
Requesting The Criminal Justice Research Institute, In Collaboration With The Judiciary And Department Of Public Safety, To Report On The Outcomes Of Individuals Released On Bail And Other Forms Of Pretrial Release.
Urging The Department Of Human Services, Department Of Health, And Judiciary To Prioritize Ensuring That Contracts For Government Services Are Adequately Resourced To Cover The Costs Of Providing Those Services.
Requesting The Judiciary To Examine The Frequency Of Complaints For Summary Possession And Motions For Summary Judgment That Are Granted In Favor Of The Landlord When The Landlord Is Represented By Counsel And The Tenant Is Acting Pro Se.
Urging The Hawaii Housing Finance And Development Corporation To Prioritize The Allocation Of Funds From The Rental Housing Revolving Fund, Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund, And Low-income Housing Tax Credits For Projects That Will Make The Most Efficient Use Of Taxpayer Funds And Address The Most Urgent State Priorities.
Constitutional amendment to increase the non-lawyer membership of and provide for the selection judiciary commission members and to require investigations be conducted by directive of the supreme court. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (EN +$7,115 GF EX See Note)