California, United States of America
The following excerpt is from People v. Martinez, H045108 (Cal. App. 2019):
"It is particularly difficult to prevail on an appellate claim of ineffective assistance. On direct appeal, a conviction will be reversed for ineffective assistance only if (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
Page 14
assistance are more appropriately resolved in a habeas corpus proceeding." (People v. Mai (2013) 57 Cal.4th 986, 1009.)
"Whether to object at trial is among 'the minute to minute and second to second strategic and tactical decisions which must be made by the trial lawyer during the heat of battle' " and "[s]ometimes, the best action an attorney can take regarding an available objection is not to make it." (People v. Riel (2000) 22 Cal.4th 1153, 1202.)
2. Analysis
The above passage should not be considered legal advice. Reliable answers to complex legal questions require comprehensive research memos. To learn more visit www.alexi.com.