Rule 7.114 - CRIIMINAL PRE-TRIAL PROCEDUREInstead of scheduling pretrial hearings, the lawyers must follow this procedure regarding plea negotiations (except as to in-custody, 60-day rule cases, "complex" cases, and cases for which good cause may be demonstrated):
(1) Felonies, Misdemeanors and violations: The district attorney and the defense attorney(s) must negotiate during the 8-week period immediately following the date of arraignment, notice of appointment, or date of representation, whichever is last to occur.(2) Reciprocal discovery and investigations must be completed within the above-referenced 8-week period.(3) Prior to the expiration of the 8-week period, the District Attorney's Office must notify the court, in writing, of the status of the case regarding settlement, plea(s), dismissal(s), trial, or any requests for extensions of time.(4) Any request for extension of the 8-week period must be sought, in writing, prior to the expiration of said period.(5) If a settlement has been reached, the parties must provide the court with a copy of the settlement document (or plea petition), including amounts of restitution and the addresses of victims.(6) If settlement has not occurred by the conclusion of the 8-week period, or any extension thereof, a plea shall be entered and a trial date set. The court will not accept a negotiated plea after a trial date has been set except for good cause shown.Amended effective 2/1/2024.