Asbill v. State

The appellant was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to life imprisonment in the penitentiary. He was represented by court-appointed counsel and at arraignment pleaded not guilty and not guilty by reason of insanity. After sentence was imposed, appellant gave notice of appeal and was furnished a free transcript. Trial counsel was appointed to represent appellant on this appeal.

On the morning of July 24, 1978, Aaron Lockhart, a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service, attempted to deliver mail at 2333 10th Avenue South, Birmingham, Alabama. As he approached the house he…