Williams v. Warden of Maryland Penitentiary

James Williams, a prisoner in the Maryland Penitentiary, has applied here for leave to appeal from the refusal of a writ of habeas corpus.

Petitioner alleges that he was arraigned in the Circuit Court for Dorchester County on October 31, 1952, on the charge of rape. He pleaded not guilty, and the Court appointed an attorney to defend him. His case was tried on November 13, 1952. At the close of the State’s case, petitioner’s attorney changed the plea to guilty. A juror was withdrawn and the trial judge accepted the plea. The judge thereupon sentenced petitioner to imprisonment for life.

First.…