Minnifield v. City of Alexander City

Cynthia Minnifield, the appellant, was convicted of assault in the third degree and was sentenced to 45 days in the city jail. That conviction must be reversed because she was denied her constitutional right to the assistance of counsel.

The court reporter's transcript begins as follows:

"PROCEEDINGS

"(Bench conference)

"THE COURT: All right. We're ready to strike a jury now on Cynthia Minnifield.

"MR. CLAYTON [an attorney]: Judge, it would appear that Ms. Minnifield may be looking at some jail time. In fact, I would say it's very probable. And I don't know anything about the case, other than what…