Cochran v. State

Clarke, Justice.

This is a case which presents the issue of the court’s duty when a criminal defendant indicates he wishes to prosecute his appeal pro se.

Cochran was charged with the murder of his wife, and the State sought the death penalty. He was found guilty but the jury recommended a life sentence. Upon sentencing him, the trial judge asked Cochran if he had anything to say. He expressed his gratitude to his two lawyers who were representing him under appointment of the court. He then went on to say that he wished to terminate their services and wanted all of the trial records forwarded…