It is a benefit. No contest pleas that are subject to conditions are unacceptable. One is to penalize the State for its erroneous attempt. The other is to compensate Cambra for the consequences, if any, of the State's erroneous attempt. They are not valid reasons for allowing Cambra to withdraw his no contest plea.
Judges do it all the time.
In light of our decision, we agree with the circuit court that no relevant purpose would have been served to allow Cambra to inquire into the conduct and reasoning of the deputy attorney general who made the erroneous attempt. David Bettencourt, on the briefs, for defendant-appellant. James T. Carter, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, County of Maui, on the brief, for plaintiff-appellee.