Appellant's lack of knowledge about the law and mental challenges are not impediments external to the defense. 2 See Phelps v. Director, Prisons, 104 Nev. 656, 660, 764 P.2d 1303, 1306 (1988). Accordingly, we ORDER the judgment of the district court AFFIRMED. 3

AtA J.

Hardesty

J.

J.

cc: Hon. Valerie Adair, District Judge Lance Speake Attorney General/Carson City Clark County District Attorney Eighth District Court Clerk

2 We note that appellant was determined to be competent during the trial proceedings and litigated a post-conviction motion to withdraw the plea prior to the filing of this petition.

3 We deny appellant's request for counsel.

SUPREME COURT OF NEVADA (0) 1947A

11E;S: 4, 3E- IMEN111 A