Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB) Practice Exam

What is the timeframe for a trial in a felony case if the defendant is released on bail?

1. 120 days

2. 160 days

3. 180 days

4. 90 days

The correct answer is: 160 days

In Illinois, the timeframe for trying a felony case in which the defendant is released on bail is set at 160 days. This provision exists to ensure that defendants do not remain in limbo for an extended period while awaiting their trial, promoting the right to a speedy trial as guaranteed by both the U.S. and Illinois Constitutions. The law specifies that for defendants awaiting trial on felony charges, the prosecution must bring the case to trial within this 160-day window. If the trial does not commence within this period, the defendant may be eligible for dismissal of their charges, provided there are no valid exceptions that extend the timeline. Understanding the specific timeframe—160 days—helps clarify the legal obligations of the prosecution and the rights of the defendant, reinforcing the governing principles of fairness and due process within the judicial system.