Judge Leichty ordinarily conducts change of plea hearings. If the magistrate judge conducts the hearing, the magistrate judge will not accept the plea but instead issue a report and recommendation. Judge Leichty will take up the plea after the deadline for objections to the report and recommendation, or the parties may stipulate that there are no such objections.

If there are special circumstances (e.g., the defendant requires an interpreter or is unable to read), the case manager should be advised as soon as possible and in advance of the hearing. Counsel should come prepared to discuss detention, as appropriate.

A sentencing date will be scheduled at the change of plea hearing, whether Judge Leichty or the magistrate judge conducts the hearing. Judge Leichty usually sets sentencing approximately ninety days out from the date of the plea or jury conviction.