United States v. William Tompkins

KAUFMAN, Chief Judge:

The right of the accused to representation by competent defense counsel is so fundamental to a fair and just trial that we need not belabor its constitutional origin. Though the nature of criminal litigation is complex, some defendants insist, perhaps unwisely, that they do not need assistance in rebutting the prosecution’s claims. The law is skeptical of that choice, but recognizes the individual’s right to defend himself without counsel if the decision is made intelligently and voluntarily, with full knowledge of the right to counsel and the consequences of its waiver.…