City of Dayton v. Martin

Karen M. Sherlock, an attorney with the Montgomery County Public Defender, was found in contempt and fined $250 on March 12, 1986, by a judge of the Dayton Municipal Court, for refusing to participate as defense counsel in the trial of an assault charge against her client, Michael J. Martin.

Prior to the city’s presentation of evidence, Sherlock asked the court for a continuance, which was refused. Sherlock told the court she would not participate in the trial of Martin because she was unprepared and her participation would amount to ineffective assistance of counsel. The trial court told…