Gay v. State
Gay v. State
Opinion of the Court
After conviction on two counts of burglary, one of escape and the entering of a plea of guilty on two larceny (car theft) charges and sentencing thereon (the sentences to run concurrently), the defendant moved to vacate the judgment, plea and sentences on the ground that he had not been advised of his right to counsel at any stage of the proceeding, and that he had not had counsel to assist him in the trial of the burglary case or to advise him relative to pleading to the larceny charges, he being wholly without property or means with which to employ counsel. A hearing was had on the motion at which the solicitor general, the sheriff and a G. B. I. agent all testified that the defendant had been fully advised of his right to counsel, from the time of his arrest through the trial and entering of the plea, and that he had been informed that if he were without counsel, unable to employ one and desired an attorney, the court would appoint one for him, but he had asserted that he did not desire
The defendant testified at the hearing, and on cross examination was asked if he did not remember being advised of his right to counsel at all stages of the proceedings and of the fact that if he could not employ counsel, and wished to have one, the court would appoint one for him. To that inquiry he answered: “Well, I’m not clear, it’s not clear in my mind exactly what was said. Q. You don’t know whether that was said or not? A. Well I wouldn’t deny it, but it’s not clear in my mind what was said. Q. You did talk to the judge and I for quite a little while that morning, didn’t you? A. Yes sir, yes sir. Q. You remember the judge advising you of your right to a lawyer? A. Well, I won’t deny that it didn’t happen, but otherwise, as I said I was mentally confused.” Held:
The evidence demands a finding that the defendant was informed of his rights, which he intelligently waived, and dismissal of the motion to vacate the judgment, plea and sentences was proper.
Judgment affirmed.
Case-law data current through December 31, 2025. Source: CourtListener bulk data.