Wright v. Denato

LeGRAND, Justice.

We have allowed certiorari in this case to consider the single question whether one charged with an indictable misdemeanor is entitled to court-appointed counsel under our law upon a showing of indigency. We hold he is.

Plaintiff was charged with violation of section 321.261, Code of Iowa, for failure to remain at the scene of an accident and render assistance to an injured person. Following her indictment, she appeared for arraignment, plead not guilty, and orally requested an attorney be appointed to represent her, This request was refused. She also filed a written…