Fed. R. Crim. P. 52 - Harmless and Plain Error

Rule 52. Harmless and Plain Error

(a) Harmless Error. Any error, defect, irregularity, or variance that does not affect substantial rights must be disregarded.

(b) Plain Error. A plain error that affects substantial rights may be considered even though it was not brought to the court’s attention.

(As amended Apr. 29, 2002, eff. Dec. 1, 2002.)