When does the 45-day clock really start—and is it when you think it does?

For years, many in law enforcement have operated under the belief that the "45-Day Rule" requires Internal Affairs investigations to be completed within 45 days. But is that what the law actually says? In this article, Dr. Robert A. Verry examines the statute, the Attorney General's Internal Affairs Policy and Procedures, and controlling case law to explore one of the most persistent misconceptions in police discipline. Before relying on what you've always been told, see what the law—and the courts—actually require.