Banks v. Randle

WICKERSHAM, Judge:

In this appeal we are asked to decide whether due process entitles a defendant in a paternity action to the effective assistance of counsel.

On March 4, 1980, Stella Banks, appellee herein, began an action in the York County Court of Common Pleas to determine support and/or paternity of a daughter born to her on November 17, 1979. Appellant, Willie Randle, was named as the child’s father. Appellant denied paternity and requested that a blood test be performed. Thereafter, appellant obtained an attorney and the case progressed through pre-trial proceedings.

On October 22, 1982,…