HONORABLE WILLIAM G. SESTAK

Judicial Practice Preferences
Criminal


PRETRIAL

Plea Negotiation:

Prefers active involvement in plea negotiation process.

May become involved in designating additional conditions or making a separate plea offer.

Continuances:

Hearings may be reset after clearing with opposing counsel. Judicial Assistant will remove and reset.

Trial continuances may be arranged by stipulation of counsel, Judicial Assistant will reset.

Discovery Issues:

When discovery disputes occur, counsel must confer and make a good faith attempt to resolve them without a hearing. If a hearing must be held, it should be timely scheduled in order to avoid potential trial delay.


Deposition Disputes:

Attempt to contact the judge in order to resolve the issue during the deposition.


Miscellaneous Problem Resolution:

Will not discuss any aspect of the case without both counsel present.


TRIAL

Motions in limine:

Heard before the day of trial at a scheduled hearing.


Courtroom Etiquette:

Counsel should request permission to approach the bench.


Voir Dire Procedure Preference:

Prefer attorneys inquire of the entire panel. Seating chart with jurors names will be provided.


Contact Visits:

Normally, contact visits with family members will be authorized following trial.