The rules in this division are adopted under Penal Code section 1170.3 and under the authority granted to the Judicial Council by the Constitution, article VI, section 6, to adopt rules for court administration, practice, and procedure.
Plain-English Summary (for reference only — not a substitute for the rule text above)
The California court system has the power to create rules for criminal cases. This authority comes from two places: a specific law in the Penal Code and the California Constitution.
These rules cover how criminal courts run and how cases are handled. They apply to judges, lawyers, and anyone involved in a criminal case in California.
Summary generated March 14, 2026
Committee Notes
No committee notes available for this rule.
Rule 4.401 amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 401 effective July 1, 1977; previously renumbered effective January 1, 2001.
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