McCoy v. Louisiana

Really? This one had to be argued?

McCoy was on trial for his life. He made very clear to his lawyer that he did not want to plead guilty and wanted an alibi defense. His lawyer bluntly told the jury that McCoy was guilty. McCoy is now on death row.

It is possible to extend some sympathy to Mr English, McCoy's lawyer. He may well have believed that the best chance to save his client's life was to admit guilt and ask for a life sentence as an act of mercy. Nonetheless, that wasn't his call. A lawyer is the agent of his client, not the principal.

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