State v. Tyler

HALL, Chief Justice:

Defendant James Douglas Tyler appeals his conviction for aggravated arson, a first degree felony in violation of Utah Code Ann. § 76-6-103. Tyler brings this appeal, claiming ineffective assistance of counsel in violation of his constitutional right to counsel.1 We affirm.

We recite the facts in a light most favorable to the jury verdict.2 On the evening of July 1, 1990, Tyler went to the apartment of his ex-wife, Katherine Tyler (hereinafter “Ms. Tyler”). According to Ms. Tyler’s testimony at trial, Tyler was drunk and abusive. They began to argue, and Ms. Tyler hit Tyler…