2006 Utah Code - 39-6-58 — Convening authority review -- Action by governor final -- SSJA review -- Appeal of final action.

     39-6-58.   Convening authority review -- Action by governor final -- SSJA review -- Appeal of final action.
     (1) When the governor is the convening authority, his action on the review of a record of trial is final.
     (2) The state staff judge advocate shall review the record of trial in each case prior to final action being taken.
     (3) The SSJA shall make a written review and recommendation on legal issues to the convening authority for its consideration prior to final action in any case.
     (4) In a case subject to review by the SSJA under this section, he shall submit his opinion regarding any errors committed during the trial and his analysis of the legal effect of the error to the convening authority prior to its affirmation and action regarding the findings and sentence in the case.
     (5) The convening authority may affirm only findings of guilty and the sentence or part of the sentence he:
     (a) finds correct in law and fact; and
     (b) determines should be approved, based on the entire record and the advice of the SSJA, and any rebuttal submitted by the accused or his counsel.
     (6) In considering the record, the convening authority may weigh the evidence, judge the credibility of witnesses, and determine controverted questions of fact, recognizing that the trial court saw and heard the testimony of the witnesses.
     (7) If the convening authority sets aside the findings and sentence:
     (a) he may order a rehearing, except when the decision to set aside is based on a lack of sufficient evidence in the record to support the findings; or
     (b) if he does not order a rehearing, he shall dismiss the charges.
     (8) (a) Final action approved by the convening authority may be appealed directly to the Utah Court of Appeals.
     (b) Notice of appeal shall be filed within 30 days after the final action has been taken by the convening authority.

Amended by Chapter 9, 1988 Special Session 2