ABSTRACT
One of the benchmarks of criminal justice is the speedy determination of trials. Justice delayed, they say, is justice denied. International human rights law recognises speedy trials as one of the important principles of fair hearing; this has also been incorporated in various regional and domestic instruments. It is apparent that the Ugandan legal system has been truncated with delays which leave many cases lying in the court dockets for years. The problem is that delayed trials and their determination by judgements not only affect the parties involved but also increase the burden on the court. This chapter examines the issue of delay in trials and the necessity of speedy determination of cases. It employs a desk review research method to highlight the practical steps and best practices in achieving speedy trials in criminal justice systems. This involves utilising existing data to support and validate the recommendations. The chapter focuses on the approach and practice of the courts in Uganda and considers the similar/different approaches or necessary measures taken by other nations to curtail trial delays.
