How long does it take a case to go through the court system?

The length of time it will take for your case to go through the court system depends on several factors to include: Whether you are charged in federal or state court, what county you are charged in, whether you are charged with a felony, gross misdemeanor, misdemeanor or petty misdemeanor, and whether your case is dismissed, resolved through plea negotiations, or proceeds to trial. Your case may require a single court appearance or a series of appearances. Most cases are resolved within two to three months. Final outcomes of more serious or complicated cases may take more than one year.