Ferdik v. Bonzelet

How later courts describe this case

• noting that every Circuit to have considered “wired” plea agreements has approved the practice
• a plea is acceptable so long as the record contains “adequate evidence of actual guilt”
• “Only where the § 2255 motion raises ‘detailed and specific’ factual allegations whose resolution requires information outside of the record or the judge’s ‘personal knowledge or recollection’ must a hearing be held.”
• dismissal for failure to comply with court order reviewed under abuse of discretion standard
• court may dismiss pro se litigant’s action for failure to obey court order
• district court “did not need to recuse itself under § 455(b)(1