Preference for Criminal Cases Involving Indigents

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Republic Act No. 6033: Preference for Criminal Cases Involving Indigents

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Title Source: Supreme Court: Preference for Criminal Cases Involving Indigents

Law: Republic Act No. 6033

Decision Date: Aug 4, 1969

Republic Act No. 6033 ensures that criminal cases involving indigent parties in the Philippines are given priority in the court system, requiring prompt trial commencement and completion of preliminary investigations, with disciplinary consequences for non-compliance.

Law Summary

Definition of "Indigent"

Refers to a person without visible means of income.
Includes persons whose income is insufficient for the subsistence of their family.
Determination by the fiscal or judge considering family dependents.

Hearing and Trial Procedures

Trial must commence within three (3) days from the date of arraignment.
Postponements are not allowed except for illness of the accused or other justifiable grounds.
Preliminary investigations to be conducted within three (3) days after filing and terminated within two (2) weeks by city/provincial fiscals and courts.

Requirement for Availing Preference

Indigent parties must file a sworn statement certifying indigency.
Sworn statement serves as sufficient basis for granting trial preference.

Penalties and Accountability

Willful or malicious refusal by any fiscal or judge to comply with the law's provisions is grounds for disciplinary action.
Disciplinary actions may include suspension or removal from office.

Effectivity

The law takes effect immediately upon approval.

END