The Current Thousands of criminal cases dismissed because Jordan rule
Dec 2, 2025
Catherine Marshall is a lawyer representing victims in a lawsuit against the government regarding the Jordan ruling, which has led to thousands of criminal cases being dismissed. She discusses the emotional toll on survivors and advocates for suspending timelines for serious cases like sexual assault. Daniel Brown, a criminal defense lawyer, provides insights into the Jordan timelines, explaining why they were implemented and suggesting practical solutions to reduce delays. Both guests highlight the urgent need for reform to balance victims' rights with the integrity of the justice system.
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Jordan Created Hard Deadlines For Trials
- The 2016 Jordan decision set strict ceilings (18–30 months) for timely trials to protect accused rights.
- Those ceilings have since led to over 10,000 cases being stayed, including serious charges like murder and sexual assault.
Survivor's Trial Tossed At The Finish Line
- Emily Quint testified and endured cross-examination before her sexual-assault case was stayed due to Jordan timelines.
- She described feeling robbed, angry, and re-traumatized when the trial was tossed out just before conclusion.
Last-Minute Court Cancellations Hurt Survivors
- Catherine Marshall represents clients who were told the day before trial there was no judge and their cases would be tossed under Jordan.
- Some clients had no-contact orders breached dozens of times while accused remained free as trials stalled.