People of the Court
Who is the person who sent you to this program?
The judge
What is the plea of guilty?
The defendant admits that they committed the crime
What other names is the Judge called?
Your Honor or The Honorable
What is the less serious class of crime? categories?
Misdemeanor: A, B, C
If you were to go to trial would Judge Waller be the Judge on the case?
No, it would be assigned to a new Judge after you are found Able to Aid & Assist
Who represents a person who is accused of committing a crime and protects their rights?
Defense Attorney, Public Defender, or Defense Counsel (your lawyer)
What is the plea of not guilty
The defendant is saying that they did not commit the crime they are accused of
Is your personal hygiene, dress, and appearance important in the forensic interview/evaluation and in court?
Yes
What is the most serious class of crime? What are its categories?
Felony: A, B, C
Can your Forensic Evaluation be viewed by the public?
No (typically only the Judge, Attorneys, and your case manager will have access to your evaluation)
Who is the attorney who is paid to prosecute the defendant?
District Attorney (DA) or Prosecutor
What is the plea of no contest?
The defendant does not admit guilt but chooses not to fight against the charge.
Should the defendant ever talk to the District Attorney without advice from their own attorney?
No
What is the maximum possible length of sentence for a Misdemeanor C?
30 days
If you do not follow the conditions of your release can you be taken back into custody?
Yes, the Judge/District Attorney can revoke your release and you can be taken back into custody.
Who is the defendant?
You are
What is a plea bargain
A deal between yourself and the DA with guidance from your attorney: the deal says if you enter a guilty-type plea, you will be offered a lower sentence or lower charges.
Can you go back to court without a letter from the evaluator telling the Judge you are ready?
No
What is the maximum possible length of sentence for a Misdemeanor B?
6 months
What is Recidivism?
re-offending by a person who has already been punished for a crime, often referring to rearrests, reconvictions, or returns to incarceration.
Who is the boss/referee of the courtroom?
The judge
What is GEI
Guilty except for insanity: the defendant is saying that they did the crime, but their mental illness was a significant factor in committing the crime
If the defendant disagrees with something in court, should they stand up and loudly say it?
No, such interruptions could be considered contempt of court.
What is the maximum possible length of sentence for a Felony C?
5 years
Why are you recommended not to speak about the facts of your case during check-ins with Judge Nan Waller?
Because we are all the record and the district attorney will be taking notes and can use what you say against you later.