People v. Arroyo

OPINION OF THE COURT

Wesley, J.

This appeal requires us to address a classic constitutional dilemma — the inherent conflict between a defendant’s right to counsel and the right of self-representation.

After a jury trial, defendant Michael Arroyo was convicted of robbery in the second degree and grand larceny in the fourth degree. During trial, Arroyo informed Supreme Court of his desire to proceed pro se, expressing dissatisfaction with his at torney’s efforts on his behalf. After inquiring whether defendant “really want[ed]” to represent himself, the court noted:

“you have a right to do it…