Opinion ID: 1920175
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Failure to Allege Error Concerning Substitution of Counsel

Text: Johnson argues that appellate counsel was ineffective for failing to argue on appeal that the apparent substitution of Badini and Carr as counsel in place of Huttoe was improper. Johnson did not object at trial to representation by Badini and Carr and the issue was not preserved for appeal. Appellate counsel cannot be deemed ineffective for failing to raise an issue that was not preserved at trial. Groover v. Singletary, 656 So.2d 424, 425 (Fla. 1995). Additionally, as discussed in Johnson's 3.850 claim, even if the claim was not procedurally barred, Johnson's claim is without merit. Johnson has failed to show any prejudice resulting from the substitution of Badini and Carr as counsel. Appellate counsel cannot be deemed ineffective for failing to raise an issue that is without merit. Kokal v. Dugger, 718 So.2d 138, 143 (Fla.1998).