People v. Gardner

Opinion

GRODIN, J.

Larry A. Gardner appeals from his conviction of first degree murder. Among other arguments, he contends that it was error for the trial court to admit into evidence a confession contained in a letter which he wrote to his attorneys. For the reasons set forth below, we conclude that admission of the confession violated the attorney-client privilege protected by Evidence Code sections 950-954, and that, under applicable precedent the error must be regarded as prejudicial. Without reaching appellant’s other arguments, therefore, we reverse the conviction subject, of course, to…