Opinion ID: 1766558
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Right to Speedy Trial pursuant to UMDDL

Text: Taylor invoked his right to a speedy trial pursuant to the UMDDL, section 217.450-485. [9] The UMDDL, including the right to be tried within 180 days, is reviewed de novo. State v. Nichols, 207 S.W.3d 215, 219 (Mo.App.2006) [10] The UMDDL provides that a defendant who currently is confined in a department correctional facility may request a final disposition of an untried indictment. [11] Section 217.460 provides that: Within one hundred eighty days after the receipt of the request and certificate, pursuant to sections 217.450 and 217.455, by the court and the prosecuting attorney or within such additional necessary or reasonable time as the court may grant, for good cause shown in open court, the offender or his counsel being present, the indictment, information or complaint shall be brought to trial ... (emphasis added). The trial court has discretion to allow a continuance for good cause. State ex rel. Wolfrum v. Wiesman, 225 S.W.3d 409, 412 (Mo. banc 2007). Defense counsel may show good cause for a continuance under the statute even if defendant objects so long as the request is based on reasonable grounds showing the delay is for good cause. Id. Once a defendant invokes the right to counsel, counsel has the authority to seek reasonable continuances for the purpose of assuring effective assistance of counsel. Id. The court had good cause to grant the continuances. Although the continuances were requested over Taylor's objection, the requests were sought to prepare for trial after appointment as well as to respond to newly discovered evidence before trial. Given the complexity of the trial and the amount of preparation and investigation required, counsel established sufficient grounds for good cause for the delay, and the additional time ensured that Taylor received effective assistance of counsel. Further, the requests were granted in open court with Taylor and counsel present. Taylor fails to show a violation of the UMDDL.