Robinson Rancheria Tribal Court

The Chief Tribal Judge may issue administrative orders of general application relating to the administration and management of the Court system of and of particular application governing processes and procedures in the absence of law relating to same. Administrative/ General orders shall be numbered using the prefix “GO” followed by the calendar year and the sequential numerical order. Once issued, administrative orders shall be file stamped by the Court Clerk and placed in a binder and posted in conspicuous places at the Clerk’s Office. All administrative orders shall be styled as “In re:” and titled appropriately.

Chapter 2  |  Rules of Professional Conduct

Subchapter A:  Conduct of Judges

Rule 2.1  |  Applicability

These rules apply to anyone who is an officer of the Robinson Rancheria judicial system and who performs judicial functions. These rules apply to both trial and appellate judges who serve the Robinson Rancheria Judiciary (“Court”) on a full-time, part-time, or pro tempore basis and all officers and employees of the Robinson Rancheria Tribal Court. As employed in this Rule, the term “judge” also includes justices. For purposes of this rule “lawyer” or “counsel” mean any person admitted to practice law before the Robinson Rancheria Tribal Court and “advocate” means an admitted advocate, a court-appointed special advocate or domestic violence advocate.

Rule 2.2  |  Canons of Judicial Conduct

1. Responsibilities in Deciding Cases:
   a)  A judge should be faithful to the law and maintain sufficient knowledge of the rules and relevant tribal and federal law. He should be unswayed by the private interest of particular parties, public outcry for or against a particular ruling, or fear of criticism.
   b)  A judge should maintain order and decorum in proceedings before him/her.
   c)  A judge should be patient, dignified, and courteous to plaintiffs and defendants, jurors, witnesses, lawyers, advocates, and others with whom he deals in his official capacity, and should require similar conduct of lawyers, staff, court officials, and others subject to his direction and control.d)  A judge should accord to every person who is legally interested in a proceeding, or his counsel, the right to be heard under Robinson Rancheria law, the Indian Civil Rights Act, and any other relevant source of law, except when applicable law limits the parties who may participate in the proceedings, including but not limited to specialty matters such as juvenile dependency or delinquency proceedings or matters sealed by order of the court.
   e)  Except as authorized by law, the judge shall not initiate nor accept any written or oral communication concerning a pending case, either from a party to the case or from any other person, without either the agreement or presence of all parties. The judge shall not meet with any party to a case, or accept any communication from a party without either the agreement or presence of all other parties. A judge, however, may obtain the advice of a disinterested expert on law applicable to a proceeding before him if he gives notice to the parties of the person consulted and the substance of the advice, and affords the parties reasonable opportunity to respond. These restrictions do not include communications with other judges or with court personnel whose functions it is to aid the judge in carrying out judicial activities.
   f)  A judge should dispose promptly of the business of the court through the consideration, evaluation, analysis and application of applicable law.
   g)  A judge should abstain from public comment about a pending proceeding in any court, and should require similar abstention on the part of Court personnel subject to his direction and control. This subsection does not prohibit judges from explaining for public information the procedures of the court.
2. Administrative Responsibilities:
   a)  A judge should diligently perform his administrative responsibilities, maintain professional competence in judicial administration, and assist as needed with the performance of the administrative responsibilities of other judges and court officials.
   b)  A judge should require his staff and court officials subject to his direction and control to observe the standards of competence, impartiality, and diligence that apply to him.
   c)  A judge should take or initiate appropriate disciplinary measures against counsel for unprofessional conduct of which the judge may become aware.
3. Disqualification:
   a)  A judge should disqualify him/herself in a proceeding in which their impartiality might reasonably be questioned, including, but not limited to instances, where the judge:•  has demonstrated a personal bias or prejudice concerning a party or personal knowledge of disputed evidentiary facts;
   •  is named as a party, or an interested party, in the pending case;
   •  has been counselor attorney for any party in the pending case;
   •  is a material and necessary witness in the pending case;
   •  has a direct, demonstrable, and specific interest in the subject matter of the case whether personal, financial, proprietary, or business-related;
   •  served as a lawyer, advocate, or personal representative in the matter before the Court, or a person with whom the judge has been associated in a professional capacity served as a lawyer, advocate, or personal representative concerning the matter;
   •  or his/her spouse, significant other or domestic partner, or a person in a reasonably close family relationship to either of them:
   –  is a party to the proceeding, or an officer, director, or trustee of a party;
   –  is acting as a lawyer in the proceeding;
   –  is known by the judge to have an interest that could be substantially affected by the outcome of the proceeding; or
   –  is, to the judge’s knowledge, likely to be a material witness in the proceeding.
   b) Alternative to Disqualification: A judge disqualified pursuant this Rule may, instead of withdrawing from the proceeding, disclose on the record the basis of his disqualification. If based on such disclosure, the parties and lawyers or advocates, independent of the judge’s participation, all agree in writing that the judge’s participation is not prejudicial or that the judge’s financial interest is insubstantial, the judge may preside over the matter.

Rule 2.2.4  Canon
A judge should engage in activities to improve the law, the legal system and the administration of justice. To the extent that time permits, judges are encouraged to do so, either independently or through a legal/judicial association, judicial conference, or other organization dedicated to the improvement of the law. Therefore, a judge subject to the proper performance of his/her judicial duties may engage in the following activities:

Rule 2.3  |  Extrajudicial Activities

Rule 2.4  |  Political Activities

Rule 2.4.1  Political Activity
A judge shall maintain the dignity appropriate to the judicial office and should refrain from any political activity that might interfere with the performance of his/her judicial duties. Judges shall not make pledges or promises of conduct in judicial office other than the faithful and impartial performance of the duties of the office, nor announce his/her views on disputed legal or political issues. Generally, a judge may attend political gatherings, speak at such gatherings on his/her own behalf and/or contribute to a political party.

Rule 2.4.2 Candidates for Office
A judge shall not be a candidate for Robinson Rancheria Council while serving as a judge, nor shall a judge be actively involved in the campaign of other candidates for elected positions of the Robinson Rancheria. In the event a judge desires to run for an elected position of the Robinson Rancheria, he/she shall take a leave of absence from judicial service from the date of filing candidacy documents through the date the election results are finalized. If the campaign is unsuccessful, the judge may resume his/her judicial duties.

Rule 2.4.3 Political Support
While nothing herein should be construed as restricting constitutional and statutory free speech rights, judges must exercise extreme caution when engaging in political discourse on matters that may come before the court or that undermine the objectivity and impartiality of the Judicial Branch. A judge should consider refraining from political statements or actions that could be interpreted in the Robinson Rancheria community as supporting any political position except those that promote self-determination, self-governance and the furtherance of justice. This consideration does not include objective statements of existing law, statements of facts that are public knowledge or activities of electoral politics at other tribal, county, state, or national levels.

Rule 2.15  |  Economic Interests

Rule 2.16  |  Political Activity

1. make speeches for or publicly endorse a political organization, candidate or event;
2. solicit funds for or contribute to a political organization, candidate or event;
3. become a candidate for Tribal political office; or
4. engage in partisan political activities.

Chapter 3  |  Court Clerks

Rule 3.1  |  Duties of the Court Clerk

1. The Clerk shall at all times respect and comply with the law and act in a manner that promotes public confidence in the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary and the Clerk’s office;
2. The Clerk shall be patient, dignified, courteous, and fair to all persons dealt with in an official capacity and shall require similar conduct of subordinate staff and others under the direction and control of the Clerk;
3. The Clerk shall diligently discharge the responsibilities of the office of the Tribal Court Clerk, be faithful to the highest standards of the profession and maintain professional competence.
4. The Clerk shall in the performance of his/her duties bear in mind the Clerk’s obligations to the general public and legal profession by treating all persons who come in contact with the Clerk’s Office.

Chapter 4  |  Civil Matters

Rule 4.1  |  General Rules Applicable to Civil Matters

1. the number and style of the case;
2. a description of the pleading or motion;
3. the name, address, and telephone number of the filing party (unless such information is sealed by the Court) or his/her attorney of record and name of the law firm filing the document; and
4. the certificate of delivery or mailing.

1. any case, whether a matrimonial action or otherwise, in which waiver of summons and entry of appearance has been filed;
2. any case prosecuted under the small claims procedure for money judgment or possession of personal property;
3. any forcible entry and detainer case, whether or not placed on the small claims docket;
4. any probate or juvenile proceeding;
5. any case that is at issue and has been regularly set on the trial docket in which neither the other party nor his or her attorney appears at the trial;
6. any case as to any party who has filed a disclaimer;
7. any garnishment proceeding; and
8. any statutory proceeding following the rendition of final judgment in a case, including but not limited to, enforcement proceedings, or proceedings initiated by a motion or delayed petition for new trial, or by any motion, petition or application to correct, open, modify or vacate the judgment, whether filed in the same action or as a separate action.

Rule 4.2  |  Summons

1. state the name of the court and the parties;
2. be directed to the defendant;
3. state the name and address of the plaintiff’s attorney or, if unrepresented, of the plaintiff;
4. state the time within which the defendant must appear and defend the allegations stated in the complaint or petition;
5. notify the defendant that a failure to appear and defend with the time stated will result in a default judgment against the defendant for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition;
6. be signed by the Clerk; and
7. bear the Court’s seal.

1. Personal Service:
   Any person who is at least eighteen (18) years old and not a party may personally serve a summons and complaint or petition by leaving a copy of the summons and complaint with any responsible person at the defendant’s residence or place of employment. Personal service may also be accomplished by leaving a copy of the summons and complaint with the defendant at any location where he is found. In either case, the person being served is not required to physically accept the documents from the person serving. The person serving the documents may leave the documents being served within arm’s reach of the accepting party and communicate to them that they are being served. At the plaintiff’s request, the court may authorize service to be made by law enforcement or by a person specially appointed by the court. Costs of service shall be paid by the plaintiff unless the court has waived fees for an indigent party.
2. Certified or Registered Mail:
   Certified or registered mail/return receipt requested. If a party lives outside  Lyon County, Nevada, the plaintiff may attempt service by delivering copies of the summons and complaint or petition to the defendant’s address by certified mail or registered mail, return receipt requested. The returned signature card or print-out from the United States Postal Service online tracking system shall constitute proof of service.
3. Service by Publication: 
   If the original summons is returned without being served upon any or all of the defendants, the presiding judge, upon the plaintiff’s request, may issue an order to serve defendants by publication; provided, the plaintiff files a motion and affidavit to proceed with publication, which must include with specificity efforts to personally serve the defendant(s) and why such efforts were unsuccessful, efforts to serve the defendant(s) by certified or registered mail return receipt requested and why such efforts were unsuccessful, and what steps the plaintiff exercised to locate the defendant(s).

Rule 4.3  |  Motions

Rule 4.3.1  General
All motions, responses and replies, if any, must be made in writing prior to a hearing in conformity with this Rule unless the Court grants a motion made orally at a scheduled hearing. In a motion a party must specifically state the grounds therefor and the relief or order sought even where the party relies on defects or deficiencies apparent on the face of the pleading, motion or other instrument. The party filing a document bears responsibility for serving the opposing parties and/or interested or necessary patties copies of the pleading and supporting documents. The party requesting a hearing must serve notice of the motion hearing date, time, and location. All motion pleading shall contain proof of service to all opposing parties.

Rule 4.3.2  Motion Requirements
A party filing a motion shall also serve and file with it a memorandum of points and authorities in support of each ground thereof. The absence of such memorandum may be construed as an admission that the motion is not meritorious and cause for its denial or as a waiver of all grounds not so supported. Motions may be accompanied by affidavits or memoranda in support of the motion. Motions filed in writing may be scheduled for a hearing at the request of the party or on the court’s own motion. Failure to appear at a scheduled motions hearing, or a lack of request for same, shall be deemed a waiver.

Rule 4.3.3  Response to Motions
Within ten (10) days after the service of the motion, the opposing party shall serve and file a written opposition thereto, together with a memorandum of points and authorities and supporting affidavits, if any, stating facts showing why the motion should be denied. Failure of the opposing party to serve and file a written opposition may be construed as an admission that the motion is meritorious and a consent to granting the same.

Rule 4.3.4  Replies
The moving party may serve and file reply points and authorities within five (5) days after service of the answering points and authorities. Upon the expiration of the five-day period, either party may notify the clerk to submit the matter for decision.

Rule 4.3.5  Motion Support
Motions raising fact issues shall be verified by a person having knowledge of the facts, if possible; otherwise, a verified statement by counsel of what the proof will show will suffice until a hearing or stipulation can be provided.

Rule 4.3.6  Affidavits
Factual contentions involved in any pretrial or post-trial motion shall be initially presented and heard upon affidavits. The affidavits to be used by either party shall identify the affiant, the party on whose behalf it is submitted, and the motion or application to which it pertains and shall be served and filed with the motion, or opposition to which it relates. Affidavits shall contain only factual, evidentiary matter, and shall avoid mere general conclusions or argument. Affidavits substantially defective in these respects may be stricken, wholly or in part.

Rule 4.3.7  Objections and Defenses
Where various objections and defenses have been consolidated, the court should hear jurisdictional objections and defenses first. If the court grants a motion on one of the grounds stated therein, the court may decline to rule on other grounds. If an amendment is filed, the adverse party may renew any ground that the court declined to rule upon, and may object to defects in the amended pleading which did not exist in the initial pleading.

Rule 4.3.8  Discovery
Motions All discovery motions shall include the certificate of moving counsel certifying that after consultation with opposing counsel, they are unable to resolve the matter.

Rule 4.3.9  Oral Testimony at Motion Hearings
Oral testimony may be received at a hearing with the approval of the court, or the court may set the matter for a hearing at a time in the future and allow oral examination of the affiants to resolve factual issues shown by the affidavits to be in dispute.

Rule 4.3.10  Disposition
If the grounds supporting a motion are not presented for hearing when called, the court, in its discretion, may continue the hearing or rule on the motion or the motion may be denied as having been withdrawn or abandoned. Where a party consents to the denial of his motion, the motion shall be deemed to have been withdrawn. Motions that are not contested may be disposed of by the announcement of one party without the necessity of all counsel appearing. Where a motion is denied for failure to present or is deemed to have been withdrawn or abandoned, the party asserting the motion waives his objection, and if a responsive pleading is required, the moving party shall be required to serve it within twenty (20) days after notice of the court’s action.

Rule 4.3.11  Joint Motions
Joint motions shall be deemed to be joint and several as to all counts in the prior pleading and as to all parties joining in the motion, and where proper grounds are presented to the court, the court must rule on the sufficiency of each claim or defense as to each party.

Rule 4.3.12  Motion for Reconsideration
Except with the permission of the court after good cause has been shown, a party cannot present any defect or deficiency at the hearing on his motion which was not specifically stated therein, but if the court permits other grounds to be presented, the motion shall be amended in writing, by interlineation if possible, to include the new grounds. Decision shall be rendered without oral argument unless oral argument is ordered by the court, in which event the court shall set a date and time for hearing. This subdivision is not applicable to hearings on new trial motions.

Rule 4.3.13  Summary Judgment Motions
Except by leave of the court, all motions for summary judgment must be submitted to the court at least 30 days prior to the date the case is set for trial.

Rule 4.3.14  Motions Decided on Briefs
Motions may be decided by the court without a hearing, and where this is done, the court shall notify the parties of its ruling by mail.

Rule 4.4  |  Pretrial Proceedings and Trial Statements

Chapter 5  |  Quasi-Criminal Matters

Subchapter A:  General Provisions

Rule 5.1  |  Preliminary Provisions

Rule 5.2  |  Prosecution of Offenses

Rule 5.3  |  Rights of the Defendant

1. To appear and defend in person or by counsel at the defendant’s own expense. No defendant shall have the right to have appointed procession counsel provided at the Tribe’s expense.
2. To be informed of the nature of the charges against the defendant and to have a written copy thereof.
3. To testify in his or her own behalf, or to refuse to testify regarding the charge, provided, however, that once a defendant takes the stand to testify on any matter relevant to the immediate proceeding, the defendant shall be deemed to have waived all right to refuse to testify in that immediate criminal proceeding. The defendant shall not, however, be deemed to have waived the right to remain silent in other distinct phases of the criminal trial process.
4. To confront and cross-examine the witnesses against the defendant.
5. To compel by subpoena the attendance of witnesses in the defendant’s  own behalf.
6. To have a speedy public trial by an impartial judge and, upon request for an offense punishable by imprisonment, to have a trial by jury of not less than six persons.
7. To appeal in all cases.
8. To prevent a present spouse from testifying against the other spouse concerning any matter, which occurred during such marriage, except:
   a)  in any case in which the offense charged is alleged to have been committed against the spouse or the immediate family, or the children of either the spouse or the defendant, or against the marital relationship; and
   b)  any testimony by the spouse in the defendant’s behalf will be deemed a waiver of this privilege.
9. Not to be twice put in jeopardy by the Nation for the same offense.

Rule 5.4  |  Limitation of Prosecution

No act or failure to act shall be subject to criminal prosecution unless made an offense by the Tribe’s Law and Order Code. Every quasi-criminal proceeding shall be commenced within one year of the date of commission and diligent discovery of the offense, or prosecution for that offense shall be forever barred.

Rule 5.4.1  Multi-Day Offenses
If an offense is committed by actions occurring on two or more separate days, the offense will be deemed to have been committed on the day the final act causing the offense to be completed occurred.

Rule 5.4.2  Date of Diligent Discovery
The date of diligent discovery is the date at which, in the exercise of reasonable diligence, some person other than the defendant and the co-conspirator(s) know or should have known that an offense had been committed.

Rule 5.4.3  Time Calculation
Time spent outside the jurisdiction of the Robinson Rancheria Tribe for the purpose of avoiding prosecution shall not count toward the limitation period to begin prosecution.

Rule 5.6  |  Summons to Appear

1. Summons may be served by any Tribal, state or federal law enforcement officer. Service may be made at any place within or without the jurisdiction of the Robinson Rancheria Tribe.
2. Summons should be served at a person’s home between the hours of 7:00 AM and 9:00 PM, but may be served at other times.
3. The date, time, and place of service shall be written on the summons along with the signature of the person serving such, and the warrant returned to the court. A copy, so signed, shall be given to the person served at the time of service.

Rule 5.7  |  Criminal Citations

1. The name and address of the court, the name or alias and description of the defendant, a description of the offense charged and the signature of the law enforcement officer who issued the citation.
2. an agreement by the defendant to appear before a judge on a day certain to answer to the charge and the signature of the defendant;
3. a notice that upon the defendant’s failure to appear, the defendant may be further charged with failure to obey a lawful order of the court; and
4. one copy of the citation shall be given to the defendant and two copies shall be delivered to the Tribal Prosecutor.

Rule 5.8  |  Arraignment

1. The Clerk shall provide a copy of the complaint and a form setting forth the defendant’s rights.
2. The Judge will read the entire complaint and state the minimum and maximum authorized penalties.
3. The Judge should determine that the defendant understands the charge.
4. The Judge should inform the defendant his rights and ask Defendant to sign his/her rights form.
5. The Judge shall ask the defendant if he or she wishes to obtain counsel and, if the defendant so desires, the defendant will be given a reasonable time to obtain counsel at his own expense. If the defendant is allowed time to obtain or consult with counsel, the defendant shall not be required to enter a plea until the date set for the appearance.
6. The Judge will then ask the defendant whether he or she wishes to plead “Guilty,” “Nolo contendere” or “Not Guilty.”

1. If the defendant refuses to plead, the judge shall enter a plea of “Not Guilty” for the defendant.
2. If the defendant pleads “Not Guilty,” the judge shall set a trial date and conditions for bail prior to trial.
3. If the defendant pleads “Nolo Contendere” or “Guilty” the judge shall question the defendant personally to determine that he or she understands the nature of his or her action, the rights that are being waived, and that such action is voluntary. The judge may refuse to accept a Guilty plea and enter a plea of “Not Guilty” for the defendant. If the guilty plea is accepted, the judge may immediately sentence the defendant or order a sentencing hearing.
4. The defendant, with the consent of the court and of the prosecuting attorney, may plead Guilty to any lesser offense than that charged which is included in the offense charged in the complaint or to any lesser degree of the offense charged.

Rule 5.9  |  Withdrawing Guilty Plea

Rule 5.10  |  Pleading and Motions before Trial: Defenses and Objections

1. Any defenses or objections that are capable of determination other than at trial may be raised before trial by motion.
2. Defenses and objections based on defects in the institution of the prosecution of the complaint other than that it fails to show jurisdiction in the court or fails to charge an offense may be raised on motion only before trial or such shall be deemed waived, unless the court for good cause shown grants relief from such waiver. Lack of jurisdiction or failure to charge an offense may be raised as a defense or noticed by the court on its own motion at any stage of the proceeding.
3. Such pretrial motions shall be made in writing and filed with the court at least ten (10) days before the day set for trial. Reponses shall be filed and served at least three (3) business days before the trial setting. Such motions will be argued before the Court on the date of trial unless the court directs otherwise. Decision on such motions shall be made by the court.
4. If a motion is decided against a defendant, the trial shall proceed as if no motion were made. If a motion is decided in favor of a defendant, the judge shall alter the proceedings, allow an interlocutory appeal to be taken as provided in the appellate rules, or enter judgment as is appropriate in light of the decision.

Rule 5.11  |  Concurrent Trial of Charges

Rule 5.12  |  Discovery and Inspection

Rule 5.13  |  Subpoena

Subchapter C:  Trial

Rule 5.14  |  Trial by Jury or by the Court

Rule 5.15  |  Criminal Jury Verdicts

Rule 5.16  |  Order of Trial

1. The court shall call the case name and number and ask the parties if they are ready to proceed. If the parties are not ready, the court may continue the case or direct the case to proceed in its discretion.
2. If the parties are ready to proceed and if the case is to a jury, the court will begin jury selection in accordance with these Rules.
3. The court will request the prosecutor to read the complaint and to make the opening statement. Prior to reading the complaint, the court will explain to the jury that the complaint is not evidence, but is being read for the sole purpose of informing the defendant and the jury of the offense charged against the defendant. The court should also inform the jury that the statements of counsel are not evidence but are presented so that the jury will have an opportunity to hear what counsel for each party expects the evidence to show.
4. The prosecutor should then read the complaint and briefly present the facts that the Robinson Rancheria Tribe intends to prove to show the offense. No argument of the facts or law shall be allowed.
5. The defense may then make an opening statement or may reserve their opening statement until the beginning of the presentation of the defense evidence.
6. The prosecutor shall then present the Robinson Rancheria Tribe’s evidence followed by the defendant’s presentation of defense evidence. After the defendant has presented evidence, the prosecutor may present evidence in rebuttal.
7. The prosecutor shall then present a closing argument, the defendant a closing argument, and the prosecutor shall be allowed to present a rebuttal.
8. If trial is to a jury, the judge should give them instructions and they shall retire to decide their verdict. If trial is to the judge, the judge shall then make a decision or announce the time at which the decision will be presented.
9. If the verdict is Not Guilty, the defendant should be discharged and bail exonerated.
10. If the verdict is Guilty, the judge may impose sentence immediately or may hold a hearing at a later time or date to decide on an appropriate sentence.
11. After sentencing the judge may hold a hearing to determine an appeal bond if any appeal is filed.

Rule 5.17  |  Judge Disability

Rule 5.18  |  Evidence

Rule 5.19  |  Expert Witnesses

Rule 5.20  |  Motion for Judgment of Acquittal

Rule 5.21  |  Jury Instructions

Rule 5.22  |  Verdicts

Subchapter D:  Judgment and Sentence

Rule 5.23  |  Judgment

A judgment of conviction shall set forth in writing the charge, plea, verdict or findings, and the sentence imposed. If the defendant is found not guilty or is otherwise entitled to be released, judgment shall be entered accordingly. The judgment shall be signed by the judge and entered by the Clerk.

Rule 5.24  |  Sentence

Sentence shall be imposed without unreasonable delay in accordance with the provisions of the criminal statute or ordinance violated. Pending sentence, the court may commit the defendant to jail or continue or alter the bail. Before imposing sentence, the court shall allow counsel an opportunity to speak on behalf of the defendant and shall address the defendant personally and ask if the defendant wishes to make a statement on his or her own behalf and to present any information in mitigation of punishment. Rule 5.24.1  Notification of Right to Appeal After imposing sentence, the court shall inform the defendant of the right of appeal. If the defendant so requests, the clerk must immediately file a notice of appeal on behalf of the defendant. At any time after a notice of appeal is filed, the court may entertain a motion to set bail pending appeal. Rule 5.24.2  Credit for Time Served Time served in jail prior to the judgment and sentence while awaiting or during trial shall be allowed as a credit toward any sentence of imprisonment imposed

Rule 5.25  |  New Trial

The court, on motion of a defendant, may grant a new trial if required in the interest of justice. If trial was by the court without a jury, the court, on motion of a defendant for a new trial, may vacate the judgment, if entered, take additional testimony, and direct the entry of a new judgment. A motion for a new trial based on the ground of newly discovered evidence may be made only within one month after final judgment, but if an appeal is pending, the court may grant the motion only on remand of the case. A motion for a new trial based on any other grounds shall be made within seven days after verdict or finding of guilty or within such further time as the court may fix during the seven-day period.

Rule 5.26  |  Arrest of Judgment

The court, on motion of a defendant, shall dismiss the action if the complaint does not charge an offense or if the court was without jurisdiction of the offense charged. The motion in arrest of judgment shall be made within seven days after verdict or finding of guilty or plea of guilty, or within such further time as the court may fix during the seven-day period.

Rule 5.27  |  Correction or Reduction of Sentence

The court may correct an illegal sentence at any time and may correct a sentence imposed in an illegal manner within thirty days after the sentence is imposed, or within thirty days after receipt by the court of a mandate issued upon affirmance of the judgment or dismissal of the appeal. The court may also reduce a sentence upon revocation of probation.

Rule 5.28  |  Clerical Mistakes

Clerical mistakes in judgments, orders, or other parts of the record and errors in the record arising from oversight or omission may be corrected by the court at any time and after such notice, if any, as the court orders.

An order placing the defendant on probation may be stayed on motion of the defendant if an appeal is taken.

Subchapter B:  Relevancy and Its Limits

Rule 6.6  |  Definition: Generally Admissible

Rule 6.7  |  Exclusion of Relevant Evidence

Rule 6.8  |  Character Evidence not Admissible; Exceptions; Other Crimes

1. The accused may offer evidence of his own pertinent character traits, and the prosecution may do so to rebut the same.
2. Evidence of a pertinent character trait of the victim, if offered by the accused, except in rape, assault with intention to commit rape, or if offered by the prosecution to rebut the same is admissible.
3. Evidence of other crimes or wrongs or acts for the purpose of showing motive, intent, opportunity, preparation, plan, knowledge, identity or absence of mistake or accident.

Rule 6.9  |  Methods of Proving Character Trait

Rule 6.11  |  Subsequent Remedial Measures

Rule 6.12  |  Compromise and Offers of Settlement

Rule 6.13  |  Payment or Offer of Payment of Medical or Similar Expenses

Rule 6.14  |  Inadmissibility of Pleas, Plea Discussions and Related Statements

1. A plea of guilty that was later withdrawn.
2. Any statement made in the course of any proceedings under Rule 27 of the Robinson Rancheria Rules of Criminal Procedure, Rule 11 of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure or comparable state procedure regarding the foregoing plea.
3. Any statement made in the course of plea discussions with an attorney for the prosecuting authority which do not result in a plea of guilty or which result in a plea of guilty later withdrawn.
4. However, such a statement is admissible:
   a) in any proceeding wherein another statement made in the course of the same plea or plea discussions has been introduced and the statement ought, in fairness, be considered contemporaneously with it; or
   b) in a criminal proceeding for perjury or false statement if the statement was made by the defendant under oath, on the record and in the presence of counsel.

Rule 6.15  |  Liability Insurance

Rule 6.16  |  Sexual Behavior

1. Evidence of reputation or opinion regarding other sexual behavior of the victim of the sexual offense alleged.
2. Evidence of specific instances of sexual behavior of an alleged victim with persons other than the accused offered on the issue of whether the alleged victim consented to the sexual behavior with respect to the sexual offense alleged.

1. specific instances of sexual behavior if offered for a purpose other than the issue of consent, including proof of the source of semen, pregnancy, disease, injury, mistake or the intent of the accused; or
2. false allegations of sexual offenses; or
3. sexual behavior with other than the accused at the time of the event, giving rise to the sexual offense alleged.

Subchapter C:  Privileges

Rule 6.17  |  Policy

Rule 6.18  |  General

1. The communication must come within the rule.
2. Generally, the privilege does not cease upon the termination of the relationship.
3. The privilege does not extend to communications in furtherance of an
4. illegal purpose.
5. Communications not made in confidence (i.e., intended to be relayed to third parties, made in the presence of third parties, etc.) are not within the privilege.
6. Waiver of the privilege can only be affected by the holder; (i.e., by the client or patient) and not by the professional. In matters of non-professional privilege, the waiver can only be affected by the one making the communications.
7. A third person unknown to the privilege holder cannot testify about the communication between the parties if the conversation took place in a location where there was a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Rule 6.19  |  Attorney–Client

1. The services sought or obtained were to enable someone in the furtherance of a crime or fraud, which the client knew or reasonably should have known to be a crime or fraud;
2. The communication is relevant to an issue of breach of duty by the lawyer to the client, or by the client to his lawyer;
3. The communication is relevant to a matter of common interest between two or more clients if the communication was made by any of them to a lawyer retained or consulted in common, when offered in an action between any of the clients.

Rule 6.20  |  Doctor–Patient

Rule 6.21  |  Clergy–Penitent

Rule 6.22  |  Husband-Wife

1. in any action for divorce or a civil action by one against the other; or
2. in a criminal action or proceeding for a crime committed by one against the other; or
3. in a criminal proceeding for abandonment, failure to support or provide for, or failure or neglect to furnish the necessities of life to spouse or minor children.

Rule 6.23  |  Waiver

Subchapter D:  Witnesses

Rule 6.24  |  Competence; Personal Knowledge

Rule 6.25  |  Oath or Affirmation

Rule 6.26  |  Interpreters

Rule 6.27  |  Judge or Juror as Witness

1. The judge presiding at trial may not testify in that trial as a witness.
2. A member of the jury may not testify at a trial in which the juror is sitting as a trier of fact.

Rule 6.28  |  Who May Impeach

Rule 6.29  |  How a Witness’ Credibility May be Attacked

Rule 6.30  |  Impeachment by Evidence of Conviction of a Crime

1. was punishable by death or imprisonment in excess of one year pursuant to the law under which he was convicted; or
2. it involved dishonesty or false statement, regardless of the punishment.

Rule 6.31  |  Mode and Order of Interrogation and Presentation

1. whether the interrogation and presentation are effective for the ascertainment of the truth; or
2. avoid needless consumption of time; or
3. protect the witness from harassment or undue embarrassment.

Rule 6.32  |  Writing Used to Refresh Memory

Rule 6.33  |  Prior Inconsistent Statement of Witnesses

Rule 6.34  |  Calling and Interrogating of Witness by Court

Rule 6.35  |  Exclusion of Witnesses

1. Parties.
2. Officer or employee of a party.
3. Person whose presence is essential to the presentation of a party’s cause.

Subchapter E:  Hearsay

Rule 6.36  |  Definitions

1. Oral or written assertion.
2. Nonverbal conduct of a person, if it is intended by him to be an assertion.

Rule 6.37  |  Inadmissible

Rule 6.38  |  Statements Which are Not Hearsay

1. inconsistent with declarant’s court testimony and given under oath subject to penalty of perjury;
2. consistent with the declarant’s testimony and is offered to rebut an expressed or implied charge against the declarant of recent fabrication or improper influence or motive; or
3. one of identification of a person made after perceiving the person.

1. the party’s own statement, or one which the party has manifested an adoption or belief in its truth;
2. a statement by a person authorized by the party to make a statement;
3. a statement by the party’s agent or servant acting within the scope of agency
4. or employment; or
5. a statement made by a co-conspirator of a party during the course and in furtherance of the conspiracy.

Rule 6.39  |  Hearsay Exception: Availability of Declarant Immaterial

1. Present Sense Impression:
   A statement describing or explaining an event or condition made while the declarant was perceiving the event or condition or immediately thereafter.
2. Excited Utterance: 
   A statement relating to a startling event or condition made while the declarant was under the stress of excitement caused by the event or condition.
3. Medical Statements:
   Statements for purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment statements made for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment and describing medical history, or past or present symptoms, pain, or sensations, or the inception or general character or the cause or external source thereof insofar as reasonably pertinent to diagnosis or treatment.
4. Recorded Recollection:
   A memorandum or record concerning a matter about which the witness once had knowledge but now has insufficient recollection to enable the witness to testify fully and accurately, shown to have been made or adopted by the witness when the matter was fresh in the witness’ memory and to reflect that knowledge correctly. If admitted, the memorandum or record may be read into evidence but may not itself be received as an exhibit unless offered by an adverse party.
5. Business Records:
   A memorandum, report, record, or data compilation, in any form, of acts, events, conditions, opinions, or diagnoses, made at or near the time by, or from information transmitted by, a person with knowledge, if kept in the course of a regularly conducted business activity, and if it was the regular practice of that business activity to make the memorandum, report, record, or data compilation, all as shown by testimony of the custodian or other qualified witness, unless the source of information or the method or circumstances of preparation indicate lack of trustworthiness. The term “business” as used in this paragraph includes business, institution, association, profession, occupation, and calling of ever kind, whether or not conducted for profit.
6. Public Records and Reports:
   Records, reports, statements, or data compilations, in any form, of public offices or agencies, setting forth:
   a) the activities of the office or agency;
   b) matters observed pursuant to duty imposed by law as to which matters there was a duty to report, excluding, however, in criminal cases matters observed by police officers and other law enforcement personnel; or
   c) in civil actions and proceedings and against the government in criminal cases, factual findings resulting from an investigation made pursuant to authority granted by law, unless the sources of information or other circumstances indicate lack of trustworthiness.

Rule 6.40  |  Hearsay Exceptions; Declarant Unavailable

1. is exempted by ruling of the court on the grounds of privilege from testifying;
2. persists in refusing to testify despite an order of court to do so;
3. testifies to a lack of memory;
4. is unable to be present because of death or then existing physical or mental illness or infirmity; or
5. is absent from the hearing and the proponent of the statement has been unable to procure the declarant’s attendance by process or other reasonable means.

1. Former Testimony:
   Testimony that was given under oath at the same or different proceeding, so long as the party against whom it is offered, or in a civil proceeding, a predecessor in interest, had an opportunity and similar motive to develop the testimony by direct, cross, or redirect examination.
2. Statement Against Interest:
   A statement, at the time made, that is so far contrary to the declarant’s pecuniary or proprietary interest, or so far tended to subject the declarant to criminal or civil liability, that a reasonable person in the declarant’s position would not have made the statement, unless he believed it to be true. A statement tending to expose the declarant to criminal liability and offered to exculpate the accused is not admissible unless corroborating circumstances clearly indicate the trustworthiness of the statement.
3. Statement Under Belief of Impending Death:
   In a prosecution for homicide or in a civil action or proceedings, a statement made by a declarant while believing that the declarant’s death was imminent, concerning the cause or circumstances of what the declarant believed to be impending death.
4. Hearsay Within Hearsay:
   Hearsay included within hearsay is not excluded under the Hearsay Rules if each part of the combined statements conforms independently with an exception to the Hearsay Rules provided herein.

Rule 6.41  |  Attacking and Supporting Credibility of Declarant

Subchapter F:  Opinion And Expert Testimony

Rule 6.42  |  Opinion Testimony by Lay Witness

1. rationally based on the perception of the witness; and
2. helpful to a clear understanding of the witness’ testimony or a determination of a fact in issue.

Rule 6.43  |  Testimony by Experts

Rule 6.44  |  Bases of Opinion Testimony by Experts

Rule 6.45  |  Court-Appointed Experts

Subchapter G:  Authentication and Identification

Rule 6.46  |  Requirement of Authentication or Identification

1. Testimony by a witness with knowledge that the matter is what it is claimed to be.
2. Distinctive characteristics in appearance, contents, substance, internal patterns, taken in conjunction with circumstances which support that the matter is what it is claimed to be.
3. Identification of a voice, whether heard firsthand or through mechanical or electronic transmission or recording, by opinion based upon hearing the voice at any other time under circumstances connecting it with the alleged speaker.
4. Telephone conversations, by evidence that a call was made to the number assigned at the time by the phone company to a particular person or business, if:
   a) To a person, circumstances include self-identification, showing the person answering the phone to be the one called, or
   b) To a business, the call was made to a place of business and the conversation related to business reasonably transacted over the phone.
5. Public Records or Reports:
   Evidence that a writing authorized by law to be recorded or filed and in fact was recorded or filed in the public offices and is from the public office where items of this nature are kept.

Rule 6.47  |  Self-Identification

1. Public Documents:
   Documents without official seal by purporting to have authorizing signature of official or employee of any entity included in Subsection (A) above, who has the official capacity to certify under seal and such signature is genuine.
2. Foreign Documents:
   Documents purporting to be executed or attested in an official capacity by a person authorized under the laws of a foreign country, to make such an execution and accompanied by a final certification as to the genuineness of the signature and official position of: