46-18-102. Rendering judgment and pronouncing sentence -- use of two-way electronic audio-video communication. (1) The judgment must be rendered in open court. For purposes of this section, in cases in which the defendant is charged with a misdemeanor offense, a judgment rendered through the use of two-way electronic audio-video communication, allowing all of the participants to be observed and heard in the courtroom by all present, is considered to be a judgment rendered in open court. Audio-video communication may be used if neither party objects and the court agrees to its use. The audio-video communication must operate as provided in 46-12-201.
     (2) If the verdict or finding is not guilty, judgment must be rendered immediately and the defendant must be discharged from custody or from the obligation of a bail bond.
     (3) (a) Except as provided in 46-18-301, if the verdict or finding is guilty, sentence must be pronounced and judgment rendered within a reasonable time.
     (b) When the sentence is pronounced, the judge shall clearly state for the record the reasons for imposing the sentence.

     History: En. 95-2202 by Sec. 1, Ch. 196, L. 1967; R.C.M. 1947, 95-2202; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 46, L. 1983; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 163, L. 1997; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 378, L. 1997.