People v. Jeffery

Opinion

GILBERT, P. J.

An error-free trial exists more in imagination than in reality. Many a judgment in a criminal case is tethered to the principle of harmless error. Errors that make no difference to the outcome of a case do not undermine the judgment. When a trial judge does not comply strictly with statutory requirements, the facts dictate whether an appellate court may conclude that a remand is unnecessary because it is reasonably probable the trial' court will reach the same decision. Here we conclude a remand is necessary.

Tina Louise Jeffery appeals a judgment of conviction following…