JASON93 / LEGAL TECHSearch the reference
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Legal review · Links checked : the source is available · Scope & methodology

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authority type
case
jurisdiction
federal_nationwide
publication status
published_united_states_reports
precedential status
binding
decision or issuance date
1977-06-09
subsequent history
Official source reviewed through 2026-08-25.
negative treatment status
Official primary sources checked through 2026-08-25; comprehensive commercial citator not run.
material limitations
Use only for the bounded propositions and open questions stated in the linked canonical module.

Open official source ↗

Linked modules

United States v. Lovasco

Holding used

Actual prejudice is generally necessary but not sufficient for a due-process preaccusation-delay claim; the reasons for delay also matter. Good-faith investigative delay does not violate due process merely because the defense was somewhat prejudiced, and prosecutors need not charge immediately upon probable cause.

Material limitation

The Court left lower courts to apply settled due-process principles to particular reasons and records; circuit formulations and the actual evidence must be checked.

Official source and pinpoints

431 U.S. 783, 789–96 (1977): https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USREPORTS-431/pdf/USREPORTS-431-783.pdf