Opinion ID: 1935283
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 5

Heading: Incompetency of trial counsel

Text: The issue of inadequacy of representation by trial counsel should be presented and tried in a habeas corpus post conviction proceeding pursuant to 14 M.R.S.A., §§ 5502-5508, rather than raised on direct appeal. State v. LeBlanc, Me., 290 A.2d 193 (1972). From the face of the record it appears that the defendants' convictions were the result of a fair trial. The exception to the rule which permits a claim of incompetency of trial counsel to be raised on direct appeal, as recognized in State v. Pullen, Me., 266 A.2d 222 (1970), is not applicable here. The entry will be Appeals denied. Judgments affirmed. WEATHERBEE, J., sat at oral argument and participated in conference, but died prior to the preparation of the opinion. POMEROY and DELAHANTY, JJ., did not sit.