Rodriguez v. State

OPINION

STONE, Justice.

The issue in this case is whether an indigent defendant is entitled to the appointment of a defense medical expert when medical issues of a complicated nature are a significant factor in the trial. Appellant appeals a jury conviction for murder and injury to a child. Appellant pleaded not guilty and filed a pre-trial motion for the appointment of an expert to evaluate the medical evidence. His motion was denied. Trial commenced and the jury found appellant guilty. Punishment was assessed by the trial court at 99 years for both offenses. Appellant’s motion for new trial…