What form is a defendant generally required to read and sign when pleading guilty?

When a defendant is pleading guilty, they are typically required to read and sign a Boykin form. This form is crucial because it serves to ensure that the defendant is making the plea knowingly and voluntarily. The Boykin form outlines the rights that the defendant is waiving by pleading guilty, such as the right to a trial, the right to confront witnesses, and the right against self-incrimination.

The fundamental purpose of this requirement is to protect the defendant's constitutional rights and to create a clear record that the plea was entered with full awareness of the consequences. Courts use the Boykin form to verify that the defendant understands the nature of the charges, the possible penalties, and the rights being surrendered.

In contrast, while a plea agreement form details the specifics of any negotiated terms between the prosecutor and the defendant, and a waiver form might pertain to other rights being waived during the legal process, the Boykin form specifically addresses the guilty plea itself, making it an essential part of the adjudication process. The judgment form is typically issued after a plea or trial has concluded and does not play a role in the plea of guilty itself.