What is a Marsden hearing?

A Marsden hearing is when the judge rules on the Marsden motion. If he grants the motion, the public defender is removed from the case and the judge will appoint an alternate public defender. If the judge denies the motion, then the public defender remains as the defendant’s lawyer.

What is a Nelson hearing in Florida?

The trial judge must first conduct a Nelson1 inquiry to determine whether trial counsel has in fact been ineffective. As part of this hearing, the judge should inquire of both the defendant and the court-appointed counsel about the circumstances surrounding the complaint.

What is a Nelson motion?

If a defendant makes a specific allegation/files a motion to/with the court stating that his/her defense attorney is providing incompetent or unacceptably deficient representation and he/she, therefore, is seeking to have that attorney removed and replaced with a different attorney, the court is to hold a hearing — …

What is a Faretta inquiry?

Faretta v. California, 422 U.S. 806 (1975), was a case in which the Supreme Court of the United States held that criminal defendants have a constitutional right to refuse counsel and represent themselves in state criminal proceedings.

Can a person represent themselves in a civil lawsuit?

You have a right to represent yourself in court in a civil case. If you choose to represent yourself, the court will hold you to the same standards as if you were a lawyer. Some cases are simple and straightforward.

How do I represent myself in court?

I plan to represent myself in court, what are some guidelines?

  1. 1) Know where your courtroom is located. Once you receive your court date, take a trip and find your courtroom.
  2. 2) Present yourself as a business person at your hearing. Although you are not a lawyer, you are representing yourself and you want to look and act the part.
  3. 3) Prepare the evidence you will use in your case.