What is the test for a motion for a new trial based on ineffective assistance of counsel?

California, United States of America


The following excerpt is from People v. Jelks, B280897 (Cal. App. 2018):

When the trial court has denied a motion for new trial based on an ineffective assistance of counsel claim, we apply a standard of review applicable to mixed questions of law and fact, upholding the trial court's findings if supported by substantial evidence and reviewing de novo the question of whether the established facts demonstrate counsel was constitutionally ineffective. (People v. Taylor (1984) 162 Cal.App.3d 720, 724-725.)

A trial court has "authority to grant a new trial on the ground of inadequate representation of counsel," even though it is not one of the enumerated grounds in the statutory provision ( 1181) for ordering a new trial. (People v. Fosselman (1983) 33 Cal.3d 572, 577-578; People v. Callahan (2004) 124 Cal.App.4th

Page 20

198, 209.) To prevail on such a motion, defendant bears the burden to "show that trial counsel failed to act in a manner to be expected of reasonably competent attorneys acting as diligent advocates" and that "counsel's acts or omissions resulted in the withdrawal of a potentially meritorious defense." (People v. Fosselman, supra, 33 Cal.3d at p. 581.) In cases where counsel's acts or omissions do not amount to the withdrawal of a defense, the defendant may alternatively show "that it is reasonably probable a determination more favorable to the defendant would have resulted in the absence of counsel's failings." (Id. at p. 584.) When evaluating a trial court's decision on a defendant's motion for new trial, "[r]eviewing courts will reverse convictions on the ground of inadequate counsel only if the record on appeal affirmatively discloses that counsel had no rational tactical purpose for his act or omission." (Id. at p. 581.) "In all other cases, the conviction will be affirmed and the defendant relegated to habeas corpus proceedings at which evidence dehors the record may be taken to determine the basis, if any, for counsel's conduct or omission." (Id. at pp. 581-582.)

Other Questions


If a defendant makes a motion for a continuance of trial on grounds of ineffective assistance of counsel at trial, is it appropriate to appoint a new counsel to prepare the motion? (California, United States of America)
Is ineffective assistance ineffective assistance based on a trial counsel's failure to object to a restitution order? (California, United States of America)
Does a motion for a new trial on ineffective assistance of counsel fail to address the issue of ineffective assistance? (California, United States of America)
What is the effect of a motion to withdraw a plea of no contest and a motion for substitution of counsel based on ineffective assistance of counsel? (California, United States of America)
What is the record of the appellant's appeal against a finding that counsel provided ineffective assistance and ineffective assistance to counsel? (California, United States of America)
What is the test for a motion for a new trial based on ineffective assistance of counsel? (California, United States of America)
What is the legal test for a claim of ineffective assistance of counsel based on a trial attorney's failure to make a motion or objection? (California, United States of America)
What is the legal test for a motion for a new trial based on ineffective assistance of counsel? (California, United States of America)
When a defendant makes a mid-trial motion to revoke his self represented status and have standby counsel appointed for the remainder of the trial, does the trial court have a duty to manage the trial? (California, United States of America)
Can a motion for a new trial be granted based on ineffective assistance of counsel? (California, United States of America)
X



Alexi white


"The most advanced legal research software ever built."

Trusted by top litigators from across North America.