Smith v. State

NORTHCUTT, Judge.

Lindsey Smith pleaded no contest to charges arising from two carjacking incidents. She did not appeal the convictions based on her pleas, but she did file a timely motion pursuant to Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.850. She claimed that her counsel was ineffective for three reasons: (1) she failed to investigate and prepare a defense based on battered spouse syndrome; (2) she failed to interview witnesses who would have supported that defense; and (3) she did not seek a downward departure based on mitigating circumstances. The postconviction court summarily denied…