Martinez v. People

Defendant Martinez was convicted of burglary in the Pueblo district court. He seeks reversal and a new trial, contending that the trial court committed error in refusing to allow appointed counsel to withdraw, and that the counsel thus compelled by the court to remain in the case proved to be ineffective, resulting in his being denied a fair trial.

The difficulties between Martinez and his lawyer were called to the attention of the court six days prior to trial. Counsel informed the court that he had advised the defendant that his defense to the burglary charge was weak and that it was his…