Texas Code of Criminal Procedure 56A.156 – Inspection of Statement by Court; Disclosure of Contents
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Terms Used In Texas Code of Criminal Procedure 56A.156
- Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
- in writing: includes any representation of words, letters, or figures, whether by writing, printing, or other means. See Texas Government Code 312.011
- Nolo contendere: No contest-has the same effect as a plea of guilty, as far as the criminal sentence is concerned, but may not be considered as an admission of guilt for any other purpose.
- Person: includes corporation, organization, government or governmental subdivision or agency, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, association, and any other legal entity. See Texas Government Code 311.005
- Victim Impact Statement: A written or spoken statement by the victim or his or her representative about the physical, emotional, and financial impact of a crime on the victim. The statement is given to the court before sentencing.
The court may not inspect a victim impact statement until after a finding of guilt or until deferred adjudication community supervision is ordered and the contents of the statement may not be disclosed to any person unless:
(1) the defendant pleads guilty or nolo contendere or is convicted of the offense; or
(2) the defendant authorizes the court in writing to inspect the statement.