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NARON, \par }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Petitioner-Appellant \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\b\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 vs.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\b\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 EDUARDO C. BITANGA, as Director, Department of Corrections, Government of Guam; CARL T.C. GUTIERREZ, Governor of Guam, and Territorial Parole Board, }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par Respondent-Appellees}{\insrsid4878431 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid4878431 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\b\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 OPINION}{\b\insrsid4878431 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid4878431\charrsid4878431 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Supreme Court Case No. CVA98-014 \par Superior Court Case No. SP269-97 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\b\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Filed: October 14, 1999}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\b\insrsid4878431 Cite as: 1999 Guam 21 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid4878431\charrsid4878431 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Appeal f}{\insrsid4878431 rom the Superior Court of Guam.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par Argued and submitted on May 14, 1999. \par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam}{\insrsid4878431 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par }\trowd \irow0\irowband0\lastrow \ts11\trgaph120\trleft0\trhdr\trftsWidth1\trpaddl120\trpaddr120\trpaddfl3\trpaddfr3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrtbl \clbrdrl\brdrtbl \clbrdrb\brdrtbl \clbrdrr\brdrtbl \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4680\clshdrawnil \cellx4680 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrtbl \clbrdrl\brdrtbl \clbrdrb\brdrtbl \clbrdrr\brdrtbl \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4680\clshdrawnil \cellx9360\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par }{\ul\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Appearing for the Petitioner-Appellant:}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par Antonio L. Cortes, Esq. \par }{\insrsid5596273 Carlsmith Ball}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par 134 West Soledad Avenue \par Suite 401, Bank of Hawaii Bldg. \par P.O. Box BF \par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96932-5027\cell \par }{\ul\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Appearing for the Respondent-Appellee:}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par Kenneth D. Orcutt \par Assistant Attorney General \par Office of the Attorney General \par }{\insrsid5596273 Civil Litigation Division}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par 2-200E Judicial Ctr. Bldg. \par 120 West O}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Brien Dr. \par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910\cell }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \trowd \irow0\irowband0\lastrow \ts11\trgaph120\trleft0\trhdr\trftsWidth1\trpaddl120\trpaddr120\trpaddfl3\trpaddfr3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrtbl \clbrdrl\brdrtbl \clbrdrb\brdrtbl \clbrdrr\brdrtbl \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4680\clshdrawnil \cellx4680\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrtbl \clbrdrl \brdrtbl \clbrdrb\brdrtbl \clbrdrr\brdrtbl \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4680\clshdrawnil \cellx9360\row }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid4878431 \par }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 BEFORE:}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 BENJAMIN J.F. CRUZ, Chief Justice, PETER C. SIGUENZA, Associate Justice, and JOHN A. MANGLONA, Designated Justice.}{\insrsid4878431 \par \par }{\b\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 CRUZ, C.J.:}{\b\insrsid10242538 \par }{\insrsid4878431\charrsid4878431 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 1\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 This is an appeal of the Superior Court of Guam's denial of Petitioner-Appellant Monarlito E. Naron}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 s Petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 For the reasons set forth below, we assert jurisdiction over this matter, and DENY Appellant}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 s Petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus. \par }\pard\plain \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\b\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 FACTUAL AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 2\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Petitioner-Appellant Monarlito E. Naron, (hereinafter, }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Appellant}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 ) by plea agreement executed}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 on March 16, 1993 and entered on March 23, 1993, pled guilty to various first and second degree felonies, to wit, Burglary, Theft of Money, and Aggravated Assault, a Special Allegation of Possession and use of a Deadly Weapon in the Commission of a Felony, and Robbery.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Pursuant to this plea agreement, he received a sentence of twenty-five (25) years with credit for time served. }{ \insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 3\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Appellant was sixteen years old when he and his attorney began discussions regarding the plea agreement.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 At the time of his change of plea hearing Appellant had just turned seventeen.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 In light of his age at the time he negotiated and entered into his plea agreement, Appellant contends that he was illegally and unconstitutionally incarcerated because he was not considered for sentencing under Guam}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 s Youth Correction Act (}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 YCA}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 ).}{ \insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Appellant}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 also asserts that 1)}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 He was not competent to enter into a plea agreement; 2) He was not old enough to understand the nature of a 25-year sentence; 3) He did not know the terms of the sentence for which he was bargaining; 4) He did not receive the sente nce for which he thought he had bargained;}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 and 5) He was adversely affected by the absence of his parents at his change of plea hearing.}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard\plain \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\b\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 ANALYSIS}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 4\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 We have jurisdiction over this matter pursuant to 7 GCA sections 3107-3108 (1994). In its discretion, this court may elect to treat an appeal of the denial of a Petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus as an original petition for the same relief.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Borja v. Bitanga}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , 1998 Guam 29, }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 14.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 We elect to exercise such discretion in the instant matter, and in doing so, we shall analyze the merits of this appeal as an original petition. }{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 5\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 In }{ \i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Borja v. Bitanga}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , 1998 Guam 29, this court held that sentencing a defendant in accordance with the YCA was not possible because the YCA had not been implemented.}{\insrsid4878431 }{ \i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Borja}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , at }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 21.}{ \insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Based on the record before us, we believe that there are no changes relative to the condition of the YCA that would necessitate a departure from }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Borja}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 .}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 At all times relevant to this case, the YCA still had not been implemented.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Consequently, Appellant}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 s assertions of error regarding the non}{\insrsid3874178 -}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 application of the YCA are entirely unfounded and require no further comment.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 6\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Notwithstanding the application of }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Borja}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 to effectively dismiss Appellant}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt \f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 s arguments in favor of being sentenced pursuant to the YCA, issues as to Appellant}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 s capacity to enter into a plea agreement, his understanding of the plea agreement, and the lack of parental involvement at the change of plea hearing still remain.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Each is addressed in turn.}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 A.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Appellant}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 s Capacity to Enter into Plea Agreement.}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 7\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 At issue is the standard by which a court shall determine the capacity of a minor to enter into a plea agreement.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Analogizing to contract law, Appellant asserts that he lacked the capacity to enter into a plea agreement.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 He argues that because his minor status deprived him of the capacity to enter into a valid contract for goods, his status as a minor also prevented him from entering into a plea agreement.}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 8\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 We do not agree.}{ \insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Clearly, similarities do exist between one area of law and another such that in certain instances principles from one body may aid in the analysis of the another.}{\insrsid4878431 }{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 For instance, in}{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Ex parte Johnson}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , 669 So.2d 205 (Ala. 1995), the court recognized that }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 plea agreements resemble formal contracts and that contract law theories provide a }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 useful analytical framework,}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 for dealing with plea agreements . . . .}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 at 206 citing}{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Ex parte Yarber}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , 437 So.2d 1330, 1334 (Ala. 1983).}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Qualifying this statement, however, the court further stated that, }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 contract law cannot be rigidly applied to plea agreements.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 9\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 The caveat in }{ \i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Ex parte Johnson}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 serves to underscore the distinction between contract and criminal law as well as their respective applications to plea agreements.}{\insrsid4878431 }{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 As it pertains to the formation of a plea, this distinction is further illustrated in }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Lewis v. State}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , 602 So. 2d 68 (La. Ct. App. 1992).}{ \insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 In }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Lewis}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , the court recognized that }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 [a]lthough the law of obligations (con tracts) can be used by analogy to analyze the legal relations of the parties to the plea bargain, the validity of the plea bargain and the remedies for breach of it are controlled by criminal substantive and procedural law.}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 at 75.}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 10\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Furthermore, in }{ \i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 State v. Taylor}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , 716 So.2d 174 (La. Ct. App. 1998), the defendant pled guilty to several counts of rape and burglary.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Subsequently, he argued that he lacked the capacity to agree to this plea bargain.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 at 177.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Like the Appellant in the instant matter, the defendant sought the aid of civil contract law.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Specifically, the defendant}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 asserted that }{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 he was a minor who could not legally sign and bind himself on a contract for a portable television set }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 much less enter into a binding plea agreement.}{\insrsid4878431 }{ \i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 The court held that this argument was without merit.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{\insrsid4878431 }{ \i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Taylor}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 noted that }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 civil law mi nority does not prevent a seventeen year old from being treated as an adult for criminal purposes }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 because very different concerns are involved in criminal and civil matters.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 at 176-77 quoting}{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 State in Interest of Lewis}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , 377 So.2d 1322, 1325 (La. Ct. App. 1979).}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 11\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 In explaining its conclusion, }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Taylor}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 emphasized that the defendant was automatically excluded from the jurisdiction of the juvenile courts due to the nature of the offenses charged.}{ \insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 at 177.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 In light of these circumstances, the court determined that it would have been unjust to remove the defendant from the juvenile courts while at the same time prohibiting h im, as a minor, from entering into a plea agreement that would presumably be in his best interests.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 at 177-78.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid3874178 It held that, \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard\plain \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 [the] defendant's capacity to accept a plea bargain negotiated between his counsel and the State had to flow as a necessary corollary to his exposure to severe criminal sanction as a juvenile facing trial as an adult in district court.}{\insrsid4878431 } {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Were this not the case, a juvenile being tried as an adult who was offered a plea bargain by the State would be deprived of the opportunity to act in his own best interest by reducing his sentencing exposure through plea bargaining.}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{\insrsid3874178 \par \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 12\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 We find the }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Taylor}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 decision to be persuasive.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 In the instant case, Appellant was charged as an adult pursuant to 19 GCA section 5106 (a) (1993).}{\cs15\super\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \li360\ri360\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\f66\super\insrsid10242538 \chftn }{\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 Section 5106 provides: Certification for Criminal Proceedings. \par \par }\pard \qj \fi720\li360\ri360\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 {\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 (a) If a child is sixteen (16) years of age or older at the time he committed the offense for which he is charged, and if the conduct is a misdemeanor or a felony of the third degree, and if the court after full investigation deems it contrary to the best interest of such child or of the public to retain jurisdiction, the court may, in its discretion, certify such child for proper criminal proceedings to any court which would have trial juri sdiction of such offense if committed by an adult. }{\b\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 A child who is sixteen (16) years of age or older at the time he committed the offense for which he is charged shall automatically be charged as an adult for any act which would constitute a felony of the first or second degree along with any acts which are misdemeanors or felonies of the third degree which are part of the same scheme of criminal activity as the felony. }{\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 If a child is under sixteen years of age at the time he committed the offense for which he is charged, and if the conduct would constitute an offense under 9 GCA Chapter 16 (Homicides), and if the court after full investigation deems it contrary to the best interest of such child or of the public to retain jurisdiction, the court may, in it s discretion, certify such child for proper criminal proceedings to any court which would have trial jurisdiction of such offense if committed by an adult. If a child is certified as an adult, the same judge shall not, in turn preside over the criminal pr oceedings against such child. \par }\pard \qj \li360\ri360\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 {\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 \par }\pard \qj \li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 {\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 19 GCA }{\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f172\fs20}}}{\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 5106 (1993) (emphasis added).}}}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 As a consequence, any meaningful opportunity to act in his own interests necessarily entailed the ability to form, agree to, and ultimately, b e sentenced in accordance with a binding plea agreement.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 A minor legally charged and treated as an adult must not be prevented from entering into a plea agreement that would be in his best interests solely because of his status as a minor.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Based on the for egoing, we hold that Appellant had the capacity to negotiate and enter into a binding plea agreement.}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 B.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Appellant}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 s Understanding of the Plea Agreement Terms.}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 13\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 We now address Appellant}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 s assertion that he did not understand his plea agreement to a legally sufficient degree.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 In the majority of jurisdictions the standard of competency for pleading guilty is}{\insrsid4878431 }{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 identical to the competency standard for undergoing trial.}{\cs15\super\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\f66\super\insrsid10242538 \chftn }{\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 Thi s standard is recognized by the majority of jurisdictions to include: the Courts of Appeals in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, 7th, 10th, and 11th Circuits and by many state courts. }}}{\insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 See}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Godinez v. Moran}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , 509 U.S. 389, 396, n.5, 113 S.Ct. 2680, 2685 (1993).}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Specifically, the standard is whether the defendant has "sufficient present ability to consult with his lawyer with a reasonable degree of rational understanding" and a "rational as well as factual understanding of the proceedings against him."}{ \insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 at 396 quoting}{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Dusky v. United States}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , 362 U.S. 402, 403, 80 S.Ct. 788, 789 (1960).}{ \insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 The Ninth Circuit, however, has a slightly higher standard than the one set forth in }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Dusky}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 .}{\insrsid4878431 }{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 In }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Sieling v. Eyman}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , 478 F.2d 211 (9th Cir. 1973), the court held that a person is incompetent to plead guilty }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 if a mental illness has substantially impaired his ability to make a reasoned choice among the alternatives presented t o him and to understand the nature of the consequences of his plea.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 at 214-15.}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 14\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 { \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 In this case, Appellant implies that he lacked the higher level of competency required in }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Sieling.}{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4878431 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 However, the record fails to indicate any evidence to support this assertion.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4878431 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Appellant did not prove that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 a mental illness ha[d] substantially impaired his ability to make a reasoned choice among the alternatives presented to him . . .}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 or that he could not }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 understand the nature of the consequences of his plea}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 as per }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Sieling.}{\cs15\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\f66\super\insrsid10242538 \chftn }{\i\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 See Sieling}{\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 , 478 F.2d at 214-15. }}}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4878431 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Moreover, Appellant failed to demonstrate that he lacked }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 sufficient present ability to consult with his lawyer with a reasonable degree of rational understanding" or a "rational as well as factual understanding of the proceedings against him" as per }{ \i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Dusky.}{\cs15\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\f66\super\insrsid10242538 \chftn }{\i\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 See Godinez, }{\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 at 396}{\i\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 quoting Dusky}{\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 , 362 U.S. at 403, 80 S.Ct. at 789 (1960). }}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4878431 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Thus, under either the Ninth Circuit or the majority standard, there was no evidence to indicate that Appellant was incompetent. }{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 15\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Appellant also contends that he lacked a factual understanding of the terms of his sentence.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 In }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 United States v. Watley}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , 987 F.2d 841 (1993), the court found that the defendant's guilty plea was rendered involuntary by 1) Incorrect information received by the defendant before and at the guilty plea hearing about the possible sentence; and by 2) The failure to advise the d e fendant about the peculiar interplay between the Sentencing Guidelines and statutory prescriptions, which made maximum and minimum sentences identical for use of firearm during a drug offense and for conspiracy to possess cocaine with intent to distribute .}{\insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 at 183.}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 16\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Contrary to the situation in }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Watley}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , we believe that the lower court did not render incorrect information to Appellant. 9 GCA section}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 40.10 provides in relevant part that,}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard\plain \qj \fi720\li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 (b) Robbery in the first degree is a felony of the first degre e. In the case of robbery in the first degree, }{\b\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 the court shall impose a sentence of imprisonment of a minimum term of ten (10) years and may impose a maximum of up to twenty\_five (25) years}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 ; the minimum term imposed shall not be suspended nor probation be imposed in lieu of said minimum term nor shall parole, work release or educational programs outside the confines of prison be granted before completion of the minimum term. The sentence shall include a special parole term of not less than three (3) years in addition to such time of imprisonment.}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid3874178 \par }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 9 GCA }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 40.10 (1993) (emphasis added).}{\insrsid3874178 \par \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 17\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 We note that prior to addressing Appellant, the court and Appellant}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 s counsel at the time of the change of plea hearing discussed the plea agreement and terms each charge individually, including the robbery charge.}{\cs15\super\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\f66\super\insrsid10242538 \chftn }{\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 Transcript, p. 6 (Change of Plea Hearing, March 23, 1993).}}}{ \insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 The court stated that the sentence on that particular charge pursuant to the plea agreement would be }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 20 years for the count of robbery to be served concurrent; and of course, pursuant to statute, can}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 t be paroled on that for ten years.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid4878431 }{ \i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{\i\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 The court then addressed the portion of the change of plea hearing cited by Appellant by asking Appellant if he understood the maximum penalties to which he could be sentenced for each charge.}{\cs15\super\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\f66\super\insrsid10242538 \chftn }{\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 Transcript, p. 33 (Change of Plea Hearing, March 23, 1993).}}}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Upon receiving an affirmative response, the court then listed the charges individually in order for Appellant to personally tell the court what he understood the maximum sentence to be.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 For instance, the court stated, }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 [w]e}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 ll start with the first, which is burglary.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt \f172\fs24}}}{\cs15\i\super\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\f66\super\insrsid10242538 \chftn }{ \f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 }{\i\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 Id.}}}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 To which Appellant, responded }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt \f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 [f]ive years.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\cs15\super\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\f66\super\insrsid10242538 \chftn }{\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 Transcript, p. 34 (Change of Plea Hearing, March 23, 1993).}}}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 The court then stated, }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt \f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 [t]hat}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 s correct.}{\insrsid4878431 }{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 And for theft of money?}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\cs15\i\super\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\f66\super\insrsid10242538 \chftn }{\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 }{\i\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 Id.}}}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Appellant then responded, }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 [f]ive years, Your honor.}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\cs15\super\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\f66\super\insrsid10242538 \chftn }{\f66\insrsid10242538 }{\i\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 Id.}}}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 18\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 After addressing the charge of aggravated assault and the special allegations the court then addressed the robbery charge in question.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 The court addressed this charge in the same individual manner, stating }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 [a]nd you are also charged with one count of robbery.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 And what}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 s the maximum sentence on that?}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\cs15\super\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\f66\super\insrsid10242538 \chftn }{\f66\insrsid10242538 }{\i\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 Id.}}}{\insrsid4878431 }{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Appellant responded, }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 [t]wenty five.}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\cs15\super\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\f66\super\insrsid10242538 \chftn }{\f66\insrsid10242538 }{\i\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 Id.}}}{\insrsid4878431 }{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 The court then stated, }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 [a]nd you understand you can}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 t get parole until you have served ten years.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\cs15\super\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\f66\super\insrsid10242538 \chftn }{\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 }{\i\f66\fs20\insrsid10242538 Id.}}}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 19\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 The context of the colloquy cited by Appellant clearly indicates that the judge was referring only to the Robbery conviction and its term of ten years before parole eligibility.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 It is evident, that Appellant was not misinformed by the judge regarding his eligibility for parole.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 On the contrary, the record indicates that Appellant adequately understood the terms of his plea agreement.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Therefore, we hold that Appellant p ossessed the requisite understanding of his plea agreement, both its general import as well as its specific terms.}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 C.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 The Absence of Parental Assistance During the Change of Plea Hearing.}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 20\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 The last issue raised, albeit, tangentially by Appellant pertains to his lack of parental assistance at the time of his change of plea hearing.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Appellant cites }{ \i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Ball v. Ricketts}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , 779 F.2d 578 (10th Cir. 1985) for the proposition that the absence of parental assistance violates the constitutional right to due process.}{\insrsid4878431 }{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 In that case, defendant Ball was sixteen years old at the time he pled guilty although he had told the court that he was seventeen.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 at 579.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Despite his misrepresentation regarding his age, there was no effect on the case because the judge still treated Ball as a minor.}{\insrsid4878431 }{ \i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 at 580.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 In addition, Ball declined to be represented by an attorney.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.} {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 at 579.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 However, subsequent to his guilty plea, Ball asserted that he did not understand the charges and the court procedures at the time he pled guilty.}{ \insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Ultimately, the court held that the lack of notice to Ball}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 s parents was sufficient to vacate the guilty plea.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Id.}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 at 581 (relying heavily on }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 In re Gault}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 , 387 U.S. 1, 33, 87 S.Ct. 1428, 1446 (1967) for the proposition that due process requires notice in writing to a juvenile and his parents of the specific charge at the earliest practicable time and in any event in advance of the initial hearing.).}{ \insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 21\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Ball}{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 is distinguishable from the case at bar on several significant points.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 First, Appellant was seventeen at the time the plea agreement was executed and entered.}{ \insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 In contrast, the defendant in }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Ball}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 was sixteen.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Appellant also had the assistance of counsel whereas the defendant in }{\i\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Ball}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 did not.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Lastly, Appellant fails to prove that his parents were not notified of his charges prior to his initial hearing.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Based on the foregoing, we hold that the plea agreement was valid despite the absence of Appellant}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 s parents at the change of plea hearing.}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 CONCLUSION}{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid3874178 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 22\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Appellant had the capacity to enter into his plea agreement and he adequately understood the plea agreement into which he entered.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 In addition, the absence of parental assistance did not rise to the level of a due process violation.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Accordingly, Appellant}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 s Petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus is }{\b\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 DENIED}{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 .}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard\plain \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid3874178 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 PETER C.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 SIGUENZA\tab \tab \tab \tab }{\insrsid4878431 }{ \insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 JOHN A.}{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 MANGLONA \par Associate Justice\tab \tab \tab \tab \tab }{\insrsid4878431 }{\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 Designated Justice}{\insrsid4878431 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3874178 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4878431 {\insrsid10242538\charrsid4878431 BENJAMIN J.F. CRUZ \par Chief Justice \par }}