Rule 2 Purpose and Construction

This rule explains why these criminal procedure rules exist and how they should be understood. The main goal is to make sure every criminal case gets a fair and just outcome.

Courts and lawyers should read and apply these rules in a way that keeps things simple and fair. Nobody should have to deal with confusing procedures or unfair treatment because of how the rules are used. This means the process should make sense and treat everyone involved fairly, whether they are the person accused of a crime, the prosecution, or anyone else with a stake in the case.

The rule also says the process should avoid wasting time and money. Cases should not drag on longer than necessary, and people should not face unnecessary costs. In short, this rule sets the tone for all the other rules that follow. It tells everyone that the point of these procedures is fairness and efficiency, not unnecessary complications or delays.