When did the code of criminal procedure take effect?

The Code of Criminal Procedure for the State of Texas took effect on January 1, 1966. This date is significant because it marked a major overhaul of the existing legal framework under which criminal procedures were conducted in Texas. The new code was designed to align with modern practices and to ensure that the rights of defendants were adequately protected, reflecting a shift in legal standards and public policy at the time.

The implementation of the code on this specific date allowed for a clear transition from the previous laws, establishing a uniform set of procedures that were to be applied across the state. It also facilitated the updates and revisions that had been developed over years in response to legal challenges and societal changes. Understanding the historical context around the adoption of the code is important, as it illustrates the evolving nature of the legal system and the importance of procedural clarity in criminal justice.