What is the current state of the law on tactical errors in defence of the Sixth Amendment?

California, United States of America


The following excerpt is from People v. Dunn, D070810 (Cal. App. 2017):

" ' "Tactical errors are generally not deemed reversible, and counsel's decisionmaking must be evaluated in the context of the available facts." ' " (People v. Stanley (2006) 39 Cal.4th 913, 954.) "When counsel focuses on some issues to the exclusion of others, there is a strong presumption that he did so for tactical reasons rather than through sheer neglect. [Citation.] . . . The Sixth Amendment guarantees reasonable competence, not perfect advocacy judged with the benefit of hindsight." (Yarborough v. Gentry, supra, 540 U.S. at p. 8.) In view of the presumption that counsel acted reasonably, it is difficult to prevail on an appellate claim of ineffective assistance, and reversal on direct appeal is not warranted unless "(1) the record affirmatively discloses counsel had no rational tactical purpose for the challenged act or omission, (2) counsel was asked for a reason and failed to provide one, or (3) there simply could be no satisfactory explanation. All other claims of ineffective assistance [of counsel] are more appropriately resolved in a habeas corpus proceeding." (People v. Mai, supra, 57 Cal.4th

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