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Criminal

Jul. 7, 2026

Public defender seeks dismissal of misdemeanor case over speedy trial claim

The San Francisco Public Defender's Office has asked an appellate court to dismiss misdemeanor charges against a defendant, arguing prosecutors failed to show good cause for delaying trial after a key witness became unavailable, violating the defendant's statutory right to a speedy trial.

San Francisco Deputy Public Defender Mark Goldstein has petitioned the appellate division of the San Francisco Superior Court to dismiss misdemeanor charges against a client, arguing the trial court violated her statutory right to a speedy trial.

The writ of mandate, filed Wednesday on behalf of Ciara Thomas, challenges a trial court order denying her motion to dismiss charges of battery and resisting arrest. Thomas is also represented by Chief Attorney Matt Gonzalez and Public De...

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