Sixteen times Willie Barker’s murder case was set for trial, and sixteen times it was continued. At first the defense readily agreed, gambling that Barker’s codefendant would be found not guilty. Thus, some of the continuances were caused by the six separate trials before the codefendant was finally convicted. Other continuances were granted because of the illness of the police investigator. It was not until five years after arrest that Barker was convicted of murder.
-What right did Barker's lawyer argue was violated?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Barker's lawyer argued that his client's right to a speedy trial, guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution, was violated. This amendment ensures that a defendant's trial takes place within a reasonable time after their arrest or indictment, to prevent indefinite pretrial detention or delays that may harm their defense.

Sixteen Times Willie Barker’s Murder Case Was Set for Trial