BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — As part of the Sixth Amendment Right to a Speedy Trial, the Kern County Superior Court announced it is now allowing defendants to request a sooner criminal court hearing or trial.

The Court announced last month that criminal jury trials and hearings are being rescheduled in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. On Monday the Court issued a new emergency local rule in compliance with the Speedy Trial Act.

The rule stated that if a party believes their trial or hearing is rescheduled to a date that interferes with their right to a speedy trial, that party can request the Court move the date up. The request can advance the upcoming case to at least 10 court days prior to date the party or attorney believes is the last date for a speedy trial.

The Court said failure to lodge an objection to the rescheduling and request an earlier date will be seen as consent to the new date set by the Court.

The Court’s website contains contact information for the appropriate Court and Division for each case. This rule will remain in effect unless amended or rescinded.