Opinion ID: 2402066
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Self-Representation Properly Denied

Text: Lopez' second claim is that the Superior Court improperly denied his request to represent himself at trial. In September 2004, the Superior Court conducted an evidentiary hearing on Lopez' counsel's motion to withdraw. At that time, Lopez became disruptive and refused to sign the waiver of counsel form. While the right to represent oneself in a criminal proceeding is fundamental, the exercise of that right is not unqualified. [15] Before permitting a defendant to proceed pro se, the judge must ensure that the defendant has made a knowing and intelligent waiver of his right to counsel. [16] We have reviewed the transcript of the hearing at which the Superior Court denied Lopez' request to proceed pro se. We find no error or abuse of discretion on the part of the Superior Court in denying Lopez' request to represent himself when he became disruptive and refused to follow the procedures of the Superior Court for waiving the right to counsel.