The following excerpt is from U.S. v. Bubbel, 951 F.2d 363 (9th Cir. 1991):
"A plain error is a highly prejudicial error affecting substantial rights." Reversal of a criminal conviction on the basis of plain error is an exceptional remedy, which we invoke only when it appears necessary to prevent a miscarriage of justice or to preserve the integrity and reputation of the judicial process.
Id. (quoting, United States v. Giese, 597 F.2d 1170, 1199 (9th Cir.), cert. denied, 444 U.S. 979 (1979)).
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