Three of four witnesses were previously represented by other attorneys in defense counsels firm in matters that were unrelated to the current trial. Also, counsel was appointed to represent a fourth witness, but never spoke to the witness before being replaced. The court held that there was no showing that an actual or potential conflict existed that adversely affected counsels performance. There was no showing that counsel possessed confidential information regarding some witnesses, and as to one other witness, she had waived the attorney-client privilege and agreed to be cross-examined as to any discussions she had with the public defenders office.
Case Summaries