Opinion ID: 1711324
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 34

Heading: Consultation With Attorney

Text: Roberts also contends that the prosecutor made improper reference to his right to counsel and whether he had consulted with counsel prior to his mental evaluations. During examination of the state's expert, Dr. Rabun, the prosecutor said: When defendant talked with you, Dr. Rabun, about facts of the case for your mental status, do you know at that time whether he knows that your exam and findings will be mentioned in court? A: (by Dr. Rabun): That's correct. Q: So they know that you're examining him after speaking with his lawyer? Defense counsel objected, approached side bar, and requested a mistrial. The prosecutor tried to explain his statement and indicated he would not ask any further questions along those lines. The trial court overruled the motion for a mistrial, and the question was withdrawn. The trial court sustained defense counsel's objection and instructed the jury to disregard the last question. The prosecutor made no other references to Roberts's right to consult with counsel. The trial court provided an adequate remedy for the prosecutor's misstep. Furthermore, Roberts has made absolutely no showing of prejudice arising from the prosecutor's comment. Again, the trial court did not err in declining to declare a mistrial.