Court Opinion

ID: 9660508
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-23 22:14:46.124494+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T18:14:20.075790
License: Public Domain

PREWITT, Judge,
concurring.
I concur in the result but consider that each point presented was properly raised. I *706think defendant had a fair trial and there was no prejudicial error. The principal opinion may be correct that certain points were not preserved, as the rules relating to points relied on have been interpreted, but I think they were preserved as the rules are written. I believe that each point substantially complied with Rule 30.06(d), V.A. M.R., as I read it; although perhaps not as Rule 84.04(d), which is identical, has been interpreted.
In Thummel v. King, 570 S.W.2d 679 (Mo. banc 1978), a careful and comprehensive explanation of the requirements of Rule 84.04(d) was made. However, problems in complying still frequently appear and I do not think it is entirely the fault of couns'el. Rule 30.06(d) and Rule 84.04(d) require that points “shall” be stated “briefly and concisely”. Stating a point briefly and concisely is not always possible when it must set forth much detail. In order to comply with the rules as interpreted, counsel may have to also violate them because a point cannot be stated briefly and concisely. If counsel seek to be brief and concise, then they may violate the requirements of the rules as they are interpreted. I think the cases intend that points relied on be as brief and concise as the circumstances may allow, but must be understandable without resort to the argument portion of the brief or the record on appeal. Unfortunately, that is not what the rules say. I believe that due to this possible confusion we should resolve any doubt as to compliance in favor of deciding the point on the merits.
I agree that there are good reasons for the requirements of these rules as interpreted, as those reasons are well stated in Thummel, 570 S.W.2d at 686. However, I think the wording in these rules can be misleading and in seeking to follow the rules as written, counsel may be violating them as interpreted.