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SJR 110

SJR 110 - Under current law, in every criminal case a defendant may, with the assent of the court, waive a trial by jury. This proposed constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, adds that a defendant may waive a trial by jury if he or she receives assent by both the government and the court. This act is identical to SJR 15 (2025), SJR 67 (2024), SJR 24 (2023), SJR 44 (2022), and SJR 22 (2021). TRISTAN BENSON, JR.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Angela Mosley

Missouri bill would modify conditions allowing criminal defendants to waive jury trial rights, affecting defendant autonomy and judicial procedure in state courts.

Second Read and Referred S Judiciary and Civil and Criminal Jurisprudence Committee
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Bill Summary · SJR 110

Legislative bill overview

SJR 110 would modify Missouri's legal framework governing when defendants can waive their constitutional right to a jury trial in criminal cases. The bill appears to adjust the conditions, procedures, or restrictions currently in place for such waivers. As a joint resolution, it may propose a constitutional amendment or significant statutory change requiring legislative approval.

Why is this important

Jury trial waivers are a fundamental aspect of criminal procedure that balance defendants' rights with judicial efficiency. Changes to these provisions could expand or restrict defendants' ability to choose bench trials, potentially affecting case outcomes, trial duration, and access to justice. This directly impacts how Missouri criminal defendants navigate their legal options and how courts manage caseloads.

Potential points of contention

  • Defendant autonomy vs. public interest: Expanding waivers prioritizes defendant choice; restricting them emphasizes the public's interest in jury participation and broader democratic engagement in justice
  • Judicial efficiency vs. due process concerns: Easier waivers may reduce court delays but could pressure defendants into waiving rights without full consideration
  • Prosecutorial power imbalance: Changes may affect whether prosecutors can effectively oppose jury waivers, potentially shifting negotiating leverage in plea discussions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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