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Just now in Brooklyn court: Defense attorney forced to start trial just as the prosecution hands over seventy (70) new pages of evidence, as well as all radio communication by police officers. Lawyer asks for an adjournment. Judge smiles. "You have lunch."
In January, after decades of fighting over the strong objection of NY DAs, a new discovery bill will finally go into effect to end this practice. Requires disclosure of information 14 days from the start of the case. Prosecutors across the city have been whining about it.
Up to now, prosecutors in NY have been empowered to withhold most info & evidence, including witness statements, police reports, & witness info, until *after* trial starts. One of worst laws in country. Texas prosecutors began calling out NY prosecutors for being ridiculous.
Instead of starting to implement the new law immediately, most prosecutors & DAs around the city have been complaining. About how hard it will be to implement. About how expensive it will be. Meanwhile, people continue to plead guilty with no info. Forced to trial w no evidence.
