Opinion ID: 51486
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Failure to Understand and Apply Relevant Law

Text: Bower argues that Buckner failed to understand and apply the relevant case law. He points to Buckner's performance during a critical suppression hearing for support. In his motion to suppress, Buckner failed to cite any cases. Bower is not eligible for habeas relief on the Fourth Amendment claim, see Stone v. Powell, 428 U.S. 465, 96 S.Ct. 3037, 49 L.Ed.2d 1067 (1976), although Buckner's performance in litigating this issue can be used to support a claim that his representation was ineffective. Buckner testified that he felt citing cases was unnecessary because of the trial judge's experience in dealing with Fourth Amendment issues. At the suppression hearing, however, Buckner asked the trial judge to consider specific sections of the Texas Constitution. Additionally, Buckner vigorously questioned both witnesses at the hearing. While Buckner's decision not to cite cases in his motion to suppress may qualify as a questionable strategic choice, in light of his performance at the suppression hearing and the latitude this court gives to strategic decisions, we cannot conclude that his overall representation of Bower was constitutionally ineffective.