Atomanczyk v. State of Texas

Appellant claims he was not competent to stand trial. He says he could not understand the proceedings against him, he could not consult with his counsel, and he could not help prepare his defense. If true, the State could not put him to trial on criminal charges. Drope v. Missouri, 420 U.S. 162, 172, 95 S.Ct. 896, 904, 43 L.Ed.2d 103 (1975). Our adversary system of justice insists that a defendant be competent at trial. Id. To convict a defendant while he is legally incompetent violates his rights to due process and due course of law. Ex parte Lewis, 587 S.W.2d 697, 700 (Tex.Crim.App.1979).

App…