This bill authorizes prosecuting attorneys to demand a jury trial in a felony case, regardless of a defendant’s waiver of trial by jury or defendant’s objection.

Jurisdiction/Legislation Level

State

LCS Legislation Status

http://lsc.state.oh.us/coderev/hou129.nsf/House+Bill+Number/0265?OpenDoc...

Our Take on This Bill

Under current law, defendants are able to waive their right to a trial by jury in favor of a trial just before a judge. This option can aid a defendant make his case in a variety of circumstances, including cases that are very technical or complicated. The ACLU of Ohio is concerned that HB 265 will tip the balance of the trial against the defendant by putting an important aspect of the defense in the hands of the prosecution.

Committees

Criminal Justice (H)

Sponsors

Rep. Amstutz (R), Rep. Blair (R), Rep. Blessing (R), Rep. Grossman (R), Rep. Huffman (R), Rep. Stebelton (R), Rep. Uecker (R)

Authors

Rep. O’Brien (D), Rep. Slaby (R)

Status

Failed

Bill number

HB 265