Opinion ID: 1822567
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Vigorous Advocacy

Text: Kearse's claim that counsel did not sufficiently advocate for him is based largely on various statements made by his counsel during the guilt phase and resentencing, most of which the jury did not hear. Kearse has lifted many of the statements from their context and ascribed to them both importance and meaning not present when they are viewed in context. We agree with the trial court that, when viewed in context, the statements and arguments constitute defense counsel's candid representations to the court. Accordingly, Kearse has demonstrated neither deficiency nor prejudice. Kearse's allegation that defense counsel did not understand the mental health issues at resentencing is similarly based on statements taken out of context. Defense counsel was an experienced death penalty attorney. He represented Kearse at the guilt phase and original sentencing and again at resentencing. At both sentencing proceedings, he presented the expert testimony of the same neuropsychologist, a number of professionals who had worked with Kearse when he was in a school for emotionally disturbed children, and family members. At the postconviction hearing, defense counsel testified that he understood the issues and was prepared at trial. We conclude that Kearse has failed to demonstrate either deficiency or prejudice.