The six-month rule starts running on which date?

• A. Date of filing the complaint
• B. Date of initial appearance
• C. Date of arraignment
• D. Date of conviction

Answer: (C)

The clock for the six-month speedy-trial rule begins when the defendant is formally charged and arraigned in court. This is the moment charges are read, the defendant is informed of the accusations and rights, and a plea is entered, making the pretrial period countable. Delays caused by the defense, certain court adjournments, or other approved tolling events can pause the clock, but the start point is the arraignment. The date of filing the complaint is just the initiation of the charging document, not the formal notice to the defendant, and the date of conviction is after the trial has ended, not when the clock starts.