Strings can be pulled by whom? The prosecutor? Probably not the defense, right? And generally, to what end?

Sometimes the defense will push for a very fast trial because they feel the prosecution has a weak case and they want to exploit that weakness.

Sometimes it's about polishing an official's resume - someone in an elected position.

Sometimes it's politicians, or other interested parties with clout. Someone may enlist the help of a local gov't official to expedite matters. Backroom deals are made.

Not in any way asserting I know this to be true in this case - esp. since I've no idea what case is or what it's about, but it can & does happen. Corruption is real.

Interesting. So do you think it's likely that the evidence and expert witnesses (medical doctors) could all be gathered and coordinated in that span of time? And just to be clear, the prosecutor is court-appointed.

Also, the defendant is a wealthy individual, but not a public figure or in any other way high profile.

Sorry - I know further details would help explain the situation. I just about fell out of my chair when I heard how quickly this thing supposedly went from start to finish.

The accused has a right to a speedy trial. If you google "right to a speedy trial" you will see that the 6th Amendment was promulgated because defendants were languishing in prison while awaiting trial.

Very generally speaking, if the matter involves any level of notoriety, a guilty verdict reflects well on the prosecutor, head of department, etc.. "Tough on Crime" stances are always good, especially in an election year.

It's also possible the prosecution thought if they moved aggressively the defendant would take a plea deal.

On the other hand, perhaps the defendant's attorney pushed it through because they believed in their case and wanted justice. I doubt a seasoned defense attorney would think that is a good strategy, but sometimes you are only as good as your client allows you to be. I imagine if they thought it was necessary, the defense could have slowed it down a bit by asking for extensions, new lab testing agencies, etc...

And sometimes legally savvy individuals stick with corporate law offices they have traditionally retained instead of searching out the best criminal lawyers during a very stressful time.

I can't see in any way how it would be possible. I mean, sure, crazy things happen. But I find the claim dubious at best.

I believe that In some counties the docket card can be accessed online.

Unfortunately, this particular county does not have criminal case information available online, and it appears the only way to access it is to make a request in person and that's not possible. I remain conflicted and skeptical, but appreciate the thoughts shared here. Even if it the story is a complete fabrication there is little I can do with that information, but it would help me to stop dwelling on it. Oh well. I suppose there are lots of unknowns in life that we just have to accept as such and move on.

I just asked this question with some modifications so it's not directly googleable, on r (slash) legaladviceofftopic. So I'll return with some answers!

DH did a lot of those cases in OKC, and he said between six and twelve months is the norm. Dallas is much bigger though. DH didn't tell me this but it all depends on who you know that gets things rushed.

Good luck to your friend, our justice system is crooked. IMO. :)

Thanks, robo.

I don't know anything about the length of time these things normally take. If 72 days seems awfully fast, what's the usual time it takes?

Here are the first two responses although as you mentioned in your case you might not be able to call the clerk.

Wording of your original post is unclear. Were you told that analyzed DNA evidence was presented? It is not difficult to find a medical expert to testify.

I asked my dh (an attorney). He said DA’s often want to give the case a “bum’s Rush” so that the defense doesn’t really have enough time to mount a great defense.

Thanks to all who responded and especially to Robo who put the question out there elsewhere. Will be trying to get some insight from an acquaintance in local law enforcement, which I am hoping will convey peace of mind one way or the other.