Idaho § 18-4004A - Notice of intent to seek death penalty

Full text of Idaho Idaho Statutes § 18-4004A — Notice of intent to seek death penalty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 18-4004A. Notice of intent to seek death penalty

(1) A sentence of death shall not be imposed unless the prosecuting attorney filed written notice of intent to seek the death penalty with the court and served the notice upon the defendant or his attorney of record no later than sixty (60) days after entry of a plea for murder in the first degree and no later than thirty (30) days after entry of a plea for aggravated lewd conduct with a minor child twelve (12) years of age or under. Any notice of intent to seek the death penalty shall include a listing of the statutory aggravating circumstances that the state will rely on in seeking the death penalty. The state may amend its notice upon a showing of good cause at any time prior to trial. A notice of intent to seek the death penalty may be withdrawn at any time prior to the imposition of sentence. However, upon a showing of good cause, and a stipulation by the state and the defendant and his attorney of record the court may extend the time for the filing of the notice of intent to seek the death penalty for a reasonable period of time.

(2) In the event that the prosecuting attorney does not file a notice of intent to seek the death penalty or otherwise puts the court on notice that the state does not intend to seek the death penalty, the court shall inform potential jurors at the outset of jury selection that the death penalty is not a sentencing option for the court or the jury.

[18-4004A, added 1998, ch. 96, sec. 2, p. 344; am. 2003, ch. 19, sec. 2, p. 71; am. 2008, ch. 300, sec. 1, p. 837; am. 2025, ch. 177, sec. 5, p. 835.]

Source: official Idaho text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Idaho § 18-4004A

What does Idaho Statutes § 18-4004A cover?

Section 18-4004A ("Notice of intent to seek death penalty") is part of the Idaho Statutes, the codified statutory law of Idaho. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Idaho § 18-4004A?

A common citation format is "Idaho Statutes § 18-4004A" (Idaho). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Idaho law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Idaho official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Idaho attorney.

How does Idaho § 18-4004A apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Idaho can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Idaho.