Scope and Interpretation

(a) Scope. These rules govern the procedure in circuit court-district division and superior courts when a person is charged as an adult with a crime or violation. (b) Interpretation. These rules shall be construed to provide for the just determination of every criminal proceeding. They shall be construed to secure simplicity in procedure, fairness in administration and the elimination of unjustifiable expense and delay. Comment These rules apply to all proceedings in which a person is charged as an adult with an offense, whether a crime, such as a felony or a misdemeanor, or a violation. See RSA 625:9. The rules establish a uniform system of procedure for the circuit court-district division and superior courts, except as otherwise specifically provided. The rules do not govern juvenile proceedings or collateral proceedings such as habeas corpus or mandamus. The rules are subject to suspension by the court when the interest of justice so requires. See Rule 37. However, a court’s power to suspend a rule may be limited by the state or federal constitution, state statutes or common law.