Ga. R. Prob. Ct. 15.6.1

As amended through October 9, 2024

Rule 15.6.1 - Alternatives

(A) A defendant may plead guilty, not guilty, or in the discretion of the judge, nolo contendere.

A plea of guilty or nolo contendere should be received only from the defendant personally in open court, except when the defendant is a corporation, in which case the plea may be entered by counsel or a corporate officer. In misdemeanor cases, upon the request of a defendant who has made, in writing, a knowing, intelligent and voluntary waiver of his right to be present, the court may accept a plea of guilty or nolo contendere in absentia.

(B) A defendant may plead nolo contendere only with the consent of the judge. Such a plea should be accepted by the judge only after due consideration of the views of the parties and the interest of the public in the effective administration of justice.

Procedurally, a plea of nolo contendere should be handled under these rules in a manner similar to a plea of guilty.

Ga. R. Prob. Ct. 15.6.1

Amended effective June 16, 2022.