Criminal Procedure - Incompetency to Stand Trial Dismissal

SB 90 modifies Maryland law regarding the dismissal of criminal charges against defendants found incompetent to stand trial. It sets specific time limits for dismissal (10 years for murder/rape, 5 years for other felonies/crimes of violence, and 3 years for other offenses) and requires courts to provide advance notice and an opportunity to be heard to the State’s Attorney and victims or their representatives before dismissing charges. The bill also allows the State to petition for "extraordinary cause" to extend these time limits and mandates victim notification if charges are dismissed. This affects defendants in criminal cases found incompetent, prosecutors, and victims who have requested notification under existing law. The changes take effect July 1, 2025.