People v. Williams

On September 17, 1969, defendant was found guilty of the murder of Arthur Pearson and was sentenced to a term of 50 to 75 years. On that date he was informed of his right to appeal, of his right to have the public defender appointed to represent him on appeal, and of his right to a free transcript.

On February 16, 1970, the public defender was so appointed. More than three months thereafter, on May 27, 1970, and without the granting of leave, a notice of appeal was filed in the trial court. This date was more than eight months after entry of judgment against defendant. The State, in its brief,…