Opinion ID: 1347679
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Frivolous Claims

Text: Gardner claims that trial counsel were ineffective because they failed to clarify for the jury that Gardner was shot in the chest and lung instead of in the shoulder, as some witnesses testified. That issue is frivolous as a basis for post-conviction relief. Whatever difference there may have been with respect to the shock and trauma Gardner suffered from being shot in the chest and lung rather than in the shoulder is wholly insufficient to show fundamental unfairness. The state of Gardner's consciousness and awareness was before the jury through several witnesses. The additional assertion that counsel failed to introduce ballistics evidence that might have related to the degree of shock Gardner suffered is also frivolous. Again, the jury had evidence on which it could make that judgment. In all events, the argument, even if it had merit, would fall far short of showing a denial of fundamental fairness in the trial.