Question
State v. Ward . Ward was indicted for first-degree murder of his former business partner, Jackson. During Ward's initial appearance, the judge appointed a public
State v. Ward. Ward was indicted for first-degree murder of his former business partner, Jackson. During Ward's initial appearance, the judge appointed a public defender as Ward's counsel. At his preliminary hearing, Ward stated to the judge that he wanted to fire his court-appointed counsel and represent himself. After some questioning by the judge, the judge reluctantly agreed to permit Ward to represent himself. Once the trial began, Ward made a long and meandering opening statement in which he used foul language, and accused the prosecution of misconduct, among other things. When admonished by the judge, Ward told the judge he shouldn't worry about what he was saying because the evidence will show how he's correct and then everyone will be sorry, including the judge. Ward also kicked over a trash can near the defendant's table. The judge warned Ward that continued disruptive behavior would result in Ward being held in contempt of court.
During the prosecution's case in chief, Ward would groan loudly during witness testimony. On cross examination, Ward would get close to the witness and yell his questions in a loud and abrasive manner. The judge issued Ward a final warning to cease his disruptive behavior. Ward responded by called the judge a "dumb loser with a bad haircut" and tossing all the papers and supplies on his table into the air.
The judge had Ward removed from the courtroom and appointed a public defender, Russ, to represent Ward in the trial. Russ requested a continuance to allow him time to prepare to present a defense since he was new to the case. The judge stated Russ could have the rest of today to and the trial would continue the next morning. Russ scrambles to prepare for trial and the next day does his best to present a defense for Ward. Despite his best efforts, Ward is convicted of murder.
During the sentencing phase, Russ spoke with Ward about his background but did not investigate further and did not seek a mental health or other psychiatric evaluation for Ward. Russ called no character witnesses or any members of Ward's family during sentencing, and never requested the Court a presentencing report. At the conclusion of the sentencing hearing, the judge sentences Ward to life in prison.
Ward appeals his conviction based on several grounds, including claims under the Fourth, Sixth, and Fourteenth Amendments.
Please identify which specific claims Ward could bring on his appeal and evaluate in detail the likelihood of success of each.
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