*1
1027
475-76,
444
100
attorneys
Boeing,
that ment. See
U.S. at
contend
The class’
747-48;
(6)
Workers,
have
their
at
Mexican
court
calculated
S.Ct.
Six
should
district
has
entire
million
F.2d at 1304. The
of the
904
$4.5
fee as one-third
fund,
parties
of
mil
to a
action
a fee
about
that
class
$1.5
for
indicated
settlement
lion,
calculating
may
it as
of properly
negotiate
than
one-third
not
the settle-
rather
fund,
against
itself,
pay-
members’ claims
of the
but also the
the class
ment
action
$3,300.
We conclude
attorneys’
for a fee
fees. See Evans v.
ment
Jeff
by D.,
734-35,
30,
its discretion1
717,
court abused
n.
the district
475
738
106 S.Ct.
U.S.
claims
1540-42,
30,
fee on
class members’
basing
1531,
n.
wise, that our benchmark and indicated in a class attorneys’ fee successful award twenty-five entire percent
action course, percentage fund.
common Of adjusted unusual
may be to account Alston, Paul, Johnson,
circumstances. See (9th F.2d 272 Graulty, Hunt v. 886 & GERLAUGH, Darrick Leonard Cir.1989). applied We have the lodestar also Petitioner-Appellant, v. approach some cases. See Florida (9th Cir.1990). Dunne, 915 F.2d case, recognize opposed in this We Terry STEWART, Director of Arizona (6) Workers, Boeing Mexican and Six Corrections, Department of necessarily class do absent members Respondent-Appellee. interest the unclaimed calculable No. 95-99018. fund, will
money in the be returned pay the if it is not used to the defendants Appeals, United States Court attorneys’ Boeing, See class fees. Ninth Circuit. 747-48; (6) 475-76, 100 Mexi Six May 23, 1997. Argued and Submitted Workers, at 1304. The district 904 F.2d can apparently payment that the concluded court Nov. Decided money in the fund remaining from the fees shifting: prohibited fee thus would amount defendants,
assessing rather against fees But, against the class members.
than absent (6) Boeing unlike and Six Mexican
also
Workers, a settlement this ease involves length, judg- negotiated at arms (9th Community Cir. College, F.3d of discretion a district
1. We review for abuse 1996). attorneys’ fees. v. Pima award of Nelson court's *3 Lieberman, McMath, Tonya Phoe- Martin Arizona, nix, petitioner-appellant. for General, McMurdie, Deputy Attorney Paul McClennen, Attorney Gen- Assistant Crane eral, Phoenix, Arizona, respondent-appel- lee. REINHARDT, THOMPSON
Before: TROTT, Judges. Circuit TROTT; Opinion Judge Partial Judge Dissent and Partial Concurrence REINHARDT.
TROTT,
Judge:
was writhing
pain
on the
Circuit
roadside.
began
plead
He
assailants to
young
was a
man who
Scott Schwartz
tell him the reason
their attack.
Peti-
leg
aid of a
brace and
walked with the
tioner took a
from the rear
screwdriver
Shortly
midnight on
before
Janu-
crutches.
head,
victim in
the car and stabbed the
picked up hitchhikers Dar-
ary
twenty
neck and
least
shoulders at
times.
Encinas,
Joseph
and James
Gerlaugh,
riek
also
Leisure
stabbed
victim ten to
What Mr. Schwartz did
Matthew Leisure.
twenty times.
group’s
know when he accommodated
pathologist
A
testified
these various
they
previ-
was that
request for a ride
injuries, any
assaults caused several
ously agreed
picked
to rob whomever
them
which would have
fatal. The
victim
up.
fractures, puncture
suffered numerous
together in
As
Mr.
rode
Schwartz’s
injuries
wounds
internal
from his head
*4
car, petitioner Gerlaugh,
already
who
on
body
his
to
midsection. His entire
robbery,
probation
suddenly pointed
covered with
and abrasions.
bruises
íhe
him
firearm at his host and forced
to drive to
dragged
body
three men
Schwartz’s
off the
Mesa,
near
deserted area
Arizona. We
adjoining
road
and
field
covered it
opinion
borrow from the third
of the Arizona
kept
with alfalfa.
all
Petitioner
petitioner
relate what
Court to
and
money taken from the victim.
his confederates
then did to rob Mr.
The three men returned to the road and
$37.00,
Schwartz not
but also of his
away in
drove
Schwartz’s car. When the
life:
down, they
hitchhiking.
car broke
resumed
There, the
men
out
three
forced the victim
picked
They
up
Harry
were
Roche in
pointed
gun
of his ear. Petitioner
the
pickup truck
at about 2:00 a.m. Peti-
money.
Schwartz and demanded
Schwartz
gun
tioner leveled the
at Roche
forced
and
grabbed
petitioner.
gun
from
While
him to make an apparently random series
escape,
pointed
attempting to
the victim
Finally,
petitioner
turns.
ordered
gun
pulled
trigger.
and
at Leisure
pull
Roche to
off to the side of the road.
gun
up”
not fire.
“You
The
fucked
complained
Roche
first
and
refused
exclaimed,
petitioner
“There’s
bullets in
muddy
partic-
the roadside was too
at that
gun.”
The three men knocked
point
stop.
petitioner
ular
point-
When
ground,
they
Schwartz to the
where
beat
head, however,
gun
ed the
at his
Roche
him for ten to
and kicked
fifteen minutes.
stopped
quickly put
the truck. Roche
Petitioner then announced that
would
in gear
away.
truck
sped
and
Petitioner
prevent
have to kill
him from
Schwartz
later admitted that he intended to rob
identifying them. Petitioner
En-
ordered
Roche.
emas and Leisure
hold Schwartz on the
449, 454,
v. Gerlaugh,
State
144 Ariz.
run
road so he could
the victim over with
(1985).
P.2d
dodging
the car. The victim
succeeded
police
petitioner
interrogated
Ger-
by diving
the car several times
into an
arrest,
laugh after his
he
confessed to his
adjoining
finally
Petitioner
ran
canal.
over
participation in these crimes. When asked
Schwartz with the victim’s
Conti-
Lincoln
Schwartz,
felt
how he
after he
Mr.
killed
impact
nental and felt the
victim’s
was,
chilling
you
answer
“How do
feel when
body with
over
the car. Petitioner ran
game?”
kill
Id.
added that
He
he did
victim two more times and
the vic-
struck
killing
bad at all
feel
about
the victim.
tim’s
the car bumper
head with
at least
point,
one
petitioner posi-
joint
Encinas,
time. At one
jury
In a
trial con-
tioned
top
the car’s left rear
robbery,
wheel on
victed
kidnap-
armed
Schwartz
floored
ping,
degree
the accelerator. Al-
first
murder.1 In addition
hurt,
though badly
receiving
twenty-one years
victim was still alive
sentences of
suppressed
plea agreement
accepted.
Because the trial court
co-defen-
him a
confession,
dant
Leisure's
State offered to
instruction.”); Spaziano
warrants such an
robbery
kidnapping offenses
the armed
Florida,
447, 456-57, 104
of thir-
consecutively with a sentence
to run
(1984)
3160-61,
(holding
82 L.Ed.2d
for violation of his rob-
ty-five years to life
give
court need
lesser'included offense
Gerlaugh was sentenced
bery probation,
instruction where statute of limitations had
judge to death for the murder.
the trial
offenses).
run on those
Gerlaugh’s case comes to us on
Petitioner
in the district court of
appeal from a denial
note first that “[u]nder
We
Arizona
presenta-
petition
corpus.
for habeas
His
law ...
there is no lesser
homicide
included
fifty
court contained
tion to the district
felony
offense of the crime of
murder since
claims,
here he advances
ten. We
necessary
supply
pre
the mens rea
volumi-
these claims and the
have examined
degree
element of first
murder is
meditation
case,
them to
record in this
and we find
nous
supplied by
specific
required
intent
affirm
Accordingly,
without merit.2
we
Arias,
felony.”
State v.
131 Ariz.
court.
the district
443-44,
641 P.2d
1287-88
But
fundamentally,
more
even if we were to as
requested by
sume that such instructions as
given
the defendant should have been
Guilt-Phase Claims
jury,
injuri
we can discern no
“substantial
claims related to
Gerlaugh advances three
ous effect or influence” from the failure to do
*5
district
guilt phase
of his trial. The
Abrahamson,
619,
so. Brecht v.
507 U.S.
in
court examined each
and concluded
detail
623,
1710, 1714,
113
2053,
Gerlaugh’s
citing Bru
72
367
next
L.Ed.2d
States,
123,
in
391
88 S.Ct.
requires that a lesser included offense
ton v. United
U.S.
1620,
(1968),
v. New
given only
the evidence
York, 95 murder of was 107 S.Ct. U.S. 481 (1987), lenged. is that his Sixth Amend 162 L.Ed.2d of witnesses was to confrontation right
ment into evidence of the admission
violated
II
codefendant,
nontestifying
confession of
Penalty-Phase Claims
Encinas’s and
note first that
We
Encinas.
nearly
were
identical.
Gerlaugh’s confessions
A.
Gerlaugh’s conviction and sen
At the time
claim,
vigorous
one that
most
final,
Randolph, 442
Parker v.
tence became
panel
requires
height-
divides this
our
2132, 2140-41,
75,
62,
60
99 S.Ct.
U.S.
attention,
representation
is that the
ened
(1979),
not bar the state
713
L.Ed.2d
appointed
from his
con-
received
long
from evidence so
of codefendants
ments
sentencing aspect
of his case
nection
“interlocking.”
altered
they were
Cruz
ineffective,
citing
v.
was not
Strickland
Second, Gerlaugh has nev
in 1987.
this rule
2052,
Washington, 466 U.S.
104 S.Ct.
80
confession;
accuracy of his
challenged
er
(1984),
that it
L.Ed.2d 674
but so defective
fact,
probation officer
he admitted
though
was as
he had no counsel at all. For
report for the trial
writing
pre-sentencing
proposition, Gerlaugh
our
the latter
directs
Accordingly, and
judge that it was correct.
Cronic,
attention to
United States
unavailable to
assuming that Encinas was
80 L.Ed.2d
Illinois, 476
testify,
and Lee v.
under Cruz
subject
holds that if counsel fails to
Cronic
2056, 2064,
530, 545,
“meaningful
the state’s case to
adversarial
(1986),
prop
his confession
L.Ed.2d
testing,”
prejudice
then
to the client will be
hearsay. But
erly introduced as admissible
presumed.
Id. at
no violent or tendencies. One of contrary, agree we with the Arizona Su testimony with the witnesses buttressed her preme Court and the district court that no avoiding vignette about prejudice can be shown based on counsel’s showing concern a snail on which he choice not to call these witnesses and to might stepped, suggests in which con- proceed Calderon, as he did. See Bonin v. respect that he text had more for mol- (9th Cir.1995), 59 F.3d cert. de people. lusca than The witnesses had no —nied, —, explanation petitioner’s recent brutal con- (1996) (“[wjhere L.Ed.2d 671 aggravating subject trial. duct was the of his Ger- overwhelming, partic circumstances are it is that, testify laugh’s father was also called to ularly prejudice difficult to show at sentenc father, although good he believed he was a ing alleged present due to the failure to very disciplinarian. he was strict evidence.”). mitigating judge post- at the conclusion of the hearing conviction found that this evidence good was insufficient to establish character Psychological The Failure to Use Evidence Moreover, as circumstance. aspect petitioner’s The second inef trial counsel was aware fective assistance claim is that counsel failed original trial of these cumulative wit- part sentencing process develop offer, nesses and what psychological and to use evidence on his bring made a tactical not to decision them support chent’s behalf. allegation, of this questionable into the case because of the petitioner presented testimony of Dr. probative testimony. of their value He be- O’Brien, psychiatrist, post- Thomas at the testimony lieved the could backfire because it evidentiary hearing. conviction On Ger although Gerlaugh could indicate that behalf, laugh’s peti Dr. O’Brien testified that capable compassion, he reserved it for personali tioner from a suffered character or animals, Instead, beings. not human ty soeiopathy called disorder extent painted sentencing a more direct petitioner’s capacity to conform to the sympathetic picture of his client call- *7 requirements grossly im of the law was stand, ing parents by his inter- hand, paired. On the other as the Arizona viewing petitioner’s six of friends from school remarked, Supreme Court causing and then brief summaries of the gleaned incorpo- unsavory portrait petitioner information from them to be petitioner’s presentence report emerges testimony rated into from Dr. is O’Brien’s fact, remorseless, mitigating parents’ bullying sociopath evidence. that of a testimony upon incorporated merely drew who for the ma- victimizes others large proving “superiority” measure what the three witnesses cho thrill of to his contempt society’s would have said about their laws. son. victims and O’Brien, According petitioner to Dr. killed circumstances, Under the we believe by being for the status he received able to performance during that counsel’s this criti escape consequences of his actions. aspect sentencing phase cal of was not Thus, petitioner bragged stealing about deficient. He did what he could with what' money family from his he was own because with, he had to work which was not much. away get able to with the theft. Furthermore, particular allegation this does 144 Ariz. at 704. 698 P.2d potentially involve favorable evidence reasons, about which counsel was oblivious. Counsel For four we discount the effect it, develop “Dr. knew about the evidence and looked into counsel’s failure to O’Brien’s per- (or through, sociopathic prior peti- follows or he’s equivalent) testimony” its absolutely sonality. inconsis- sentencing. The two are tioner’s life, period in his tent. And at the same Supreme First, Arizona as held why I Foreman. That’s raise Mr. petitioner’s “mere Court, evidence you help question, so could me understand sociop- like disorder personality character something. missing where I’m sufficient to constitute athy not alone is (citing Id. State mitigating problem circumstance.” here is MR. FOREMAN: The 197-98, Richmond, 560 P.2d Ariz. primarily you of time. If will look at one (1976)). opin- 52-53 testimony you will find that the expressed by Miss Park- ions that were Second, psychiatric although such evidence hurst and the other witness that we because normally and admissible is relevant presented hearing- at the earlier other than the may suggest some reason it should be why the defendant disorder itself THE Miss Sanders. COURT: judge hearing leniency, the trial treated Yes, MR. FOREMAN: Inez Sanders. hearing post-conviction at the this evidence upon period of Were based an extended held that it did establish time; years with the of involvement defen- Arizona circumstance. The dant. Par- agreed with this conclusion. on review testimony upon an Dr. O’Brien’s is based judge enthetically, remarked year. within the last evaluation conducted hearing picture that the post-conviction And- Gerlaugh conflicted painted by Dr. O’Brien of presented by opinion THE But relates dramatically with the evidence COURT: witnesses re- Gerlaugh’s three character back to the date of the offense. opinion: to earlier this ferred MR. back to the of- FOREMAN: Relates (To Gerlaugh) THE COURT: spoke fense. he about how Darick And ineffective assistance really You think developed. developed- Darick put psychiatric not to on the of counsel THE I Miss COURT: Did misunderstand lay put on the wit- testimony and then saying Parkhurst that six months everything directly contradict nesses who arrest, handling dogs? he was still testimony You psychiatric stood for? tape correctly? Or did not hear the when have to that to be ineffective find tape MR. You heard the cor- FOREMAN: See, because this Court make that choice? rectly. lay that those wit- absolutely convinced every- Okay. THE absolutely have contradicted COURT: nesses They Dr. to. said thing O’Brien testified added). (Emphasis law-abiding citizen. He perfectly was a Third, petitioner specifically informed sociopathic. He was not was nonviolent. full counsel before trial and with the knowl- to animals. He followed the He was kind edge that his life was the balance that he everything fol- He did he was-he rules. undergo psychological “did not want through. He didn’t need instant lowed examination because he did not want some- dogs. gratification. He took care of the *8 never prying one into his mind. Petitioner things Dr. said He all the O’Brien did any there- indicated to defense counsel time doing. him personality precluded his from changed this after that he his mind about Now, I do with that? Mr. Fore- what do 459, 144 at 704. decision.” Ariz. at 698 P.2d man, help why you me? don’t say Here is what counsel about this Respectfully, MR. would FOREMAN: during post-conviction the State hear- issue disagree completely testimony that their is ing: Dr. way inconsistent with O’Brien’s Q. trial with But discuss testimony. you heard from Dr. As (sic) seeing probability them of his O’Brien- psychiatrist? nice, loving, THE either a COURT: He’s dedicated, A. young man who Yes. conscientious
1035 And, Lane, Q. you saying by 288, Teague are that he refused to eluded v. 109 psychiatrist? (1989)-for
see
Appellate counsel hearing for and our we would be now a claim based on respected colleague in dissent fault trial that it was a mistake for coun- Wade serious pre- counsel-in what sentencing sounds like a new rule sel to have informed the court 1036 identify any cannot fault with Arizona’s rule predatory a remorseless was
that his client people assigns post-conviction innocent for review matters bully victimized who judge. Only original for in an to the trial See State ex rel. killed status. thrills and who Court, 500, 503, lawyer v. 138 safely Superior can a reveal Corbin Ariz. appellate context (1984) rule). 1319, (enforcing 675 P.2d 1322 unflattering evidence about his client such him, immediately damaging this without 3. issue, lawyer is
is because on
trial, not the client.
Leniency
The Failure to Plead for
finally, to send this case back
Fourth and
nonevidentiary
move now to a
We
to hear
court
the evidence
to
state trial
phase
aspect
sentencing
perfor
of counsel’s
develop or
to
to introduce-
counsel failed
mance,
in
claim framed
terms
Cronic
witnesses
as the
including the three
as well
argument
to
counsel’s oral
the sentenc
looking-glass
exercise in
doctor-would be
that,
ing judge
and deficient
was so weak
judge
folly.
sentencing
trial and
has
The
effect, Gerlaugh was left without the Sixth
already
of this
considered all
information
representation to
Amendment
which he was
post-conviction hearing and
has held
argues
Appellate
entitled.
that this
his judgment
none
have altered
as
of it would
alleged
beg
leniency
pre
to
for
failure
And,
penalty
Gerlaugh.
proper
requires
sumptively prejudicial and
a rever
at the
looked
Arizona
sal, regardless
of
of an absence
demonstrable
post-conviction
results of
substance and
prejudice.
argument is
tantamount to
judge
the trial
in all
proceeding and affirmed
deficiency,
claim that
a discrete
al
such
effect,
respects.
petitioner
already
has
error,
though a trial
is structural and thus
asking
in a
had what he is
for-consideration
analysis.
evades harmless error
respect-
this evidence.
hearing
formal
of
We
outset, although
fully
the State courts to do
At the
we have dis
decline to order
Gerlaugh’s
already
aspect
cussed
of
again
been done.
each
claims
what has
against
lawyer separately, we
his
do not be
argue
does
that because
Petitioner
appropriate
segregate
lieve it to
be
coun
being
judge
post-
asked at the
presentation
sel’s oral
on behalf of his client
change
hearing
judg
final
conviction
stage
at the
sentencing
proceeding
ment,
disqualified.
have been
This
he should
from the
measures taken on
other
his behalf.
facially
long
unsound.
argument is
“It has
test,
totality
Under
it is the
of his
the Cronic
proper
as normal and
for a
regarded
examine,
just part
efforts
not
that we must
judge
upon
same case
in the
its re
to sit
“[Specified
them isolation.
errors made
mand,
involving
in successive
and to sit
trials
by counsel ... should be evaluated
under
Liteky
the same defendant.”
v. United
standards enunciated in Strickland." Cron
States,
540, 551,
1147,
114
S.Ct.
ic,
466
n.
U.S. at 666
A. As I I asked Dariek and his a penalty was definite death ease. family, being his father and moth- you What made arrive at that conclu- er, people for the names of that I sion? might contact or interview who would A. The manner which the evidence testify in be available to his behalf. basically came out at trial was estab- great This was a ease of deal lishing all of the —or good many I concern to me because was of the aggravating circumstances that opinion being that Dariek convicted of my statute covers. That client had would, doubt, the crime without conviction, robbery, which was a sentenced death. for which he could have been sen- attempt in order to make an So tenced to killing life. That the life, speak, save Dariek’s so to and not expectation done with the of some death, him sentenced to I was actu- gain. killing That the was done an ally looking mitigating witnesses who especially cruel and heinous manner. something unique would find about Dar- out, things Those came from By they iek. I that mean knew trial, the basic evidence in the for exam- something personal about him that was ple, examiner, the medical but also from physical either a ailment or a mental the confession that Dariek given. had problem gone that had untended to that knowing Based on what the statute problems have created some with called for and how Dariek fit into that Dariek that then created the situation situation, particular I had no doubt that got that he himself into the murder of up unless I something could come with Scott Schwartz. substantial given that he would be pleased ISo wasn’t real with the in- penalty. death back, got formation I because it all sur- Q. itself, you Prior to the trial give just rounded the —what I termed the any thought you explore to —or did or words, good guy syndrome. In other possibly about insanity think de- people good things say had about fense? know, Dariek. You enjoyable he was an person. I believe someone said that situation, A. In looking at that I do recall hope baby- he —I this is correct —that he talking psychia- with Dariek about a prob- sat for their child and had no trist, psychiatric testimony. about child, leaving lems him with the But I very coop- found—Dariek was a type thing. my erative client. In estimation he client, good
But I up found no one who could come was a someone that would something unique help help just that would me and not hinder me and give problems me fit him into a mitigating through circum- me as we went stance, legal mitigating circumstance the case.
by law. point But this I one didn’t find unusu- Q. your practice, al, criminal law how point and that is that Dariek did not many penalty death cases do think psychiatrist want a involved in the case. handled,
you’ve potential unusual, death The reason I didn’t find that I penalty cases? represented people other who were Indian, people Eight, prying A. I didn’t want believe. into their minds. And understood Q. many And how of those defendants saying what Dariek was about that. actually penalty? received the death Dariek, Including A. obviously there is John Adam- It important to me be- son, cause, and Robert very frankly, Cruz received the this case had no penalty, death but his case has been legal factual defense. It was a case of a *11 leads, defense, to be inter- trying get the confession down these caused them to my opinion, viewed, testify if I—in if then the wit- suppressed. And and called to con- getting helpful. I been successful he believed most had nesses would be suffi- suppressed, there was not regarding fession the others He submitted materials Darick. to convict cient evidence Probation De- to Mr. Ed Delci the Adult partment so that Mr. Delci could include you prior anything that saw Q. there Was presen- supplemental their statements a you that have led to would to report. tence insanity might that an defense believe a viable defense? be Moreover, excep- took vigorously counsel A. No. written tion to the conclusions in Mr. Delei’s hearing on presentencing conducted At the the effect showed no work to that February began counsel on his for his criminal behavior. Counsel remorse applicability attacking client’s behalf directly to behalf of argued the court on aggravating circumstances. He of two of Mr. report Delci’s was defec- money Mr. Schwartz’s argued that because tive, accept responsibility his client robbery killing, no had taken after the was done, for what he had and that he did demon- that notwith- argued Counsel also occurred. way. remorse Further- strate his own gruesome evidence adduced at standing the more, emphasized age his client’s as trial, killing was of Mr. Schwartz large mitigating in connection “one factor” compared as to other mur- heinous cruel or decision sentence and with court’s as to his no evidence was offered that ders because doing thorough Mr. Delci a assaulted for not companions his intended Mr. Gerlaugh and say in job. Here is what to this counsel had suffer, he was to or that tortured. Schwartz connection on behalf of his client. although argued that the evidence Counsel you. MR. FELDHACKER: Thank One light pros- most favorable to the taken of the basic reasons I wanted to make kill “an intent to this ecution demonstrated today opposed some comments to wait- as attempt try person[,] ... was no to to [t]here I ing opportunity is because to have had person. Any of the acts that torture this presen- doing talk to Ed Delci who is simply meant to may find to be atrocious report or presentence tence who did the actually the victim and not to make murder report. prior making to the decision him suffer then implied him.” simply Strongly kill to THE COURT: show he The record course, position argument, is counsel’s present, I believe. penalty appropriate for was not the death my MR. It FELDHACKER: Fine. was client. impression supple- that an additional then called to the stand Ger- Counsel or, report going prepared mental to be laugh’s parents, both of whom testified in least, going additional information was mitigation that their son had while given just to the I to be Court. forwarded companion growing up baby-sitter; a model a synopsis of a brief some interviews of some Scout; woman; elderly squad to an Cub people who had Darrick contact with Boy “moving Eagle in the to an leader Scouts was concerned that be made available animals, Scout”; dogs, especially kind through to the Court the Probation De- member; family good guinea pigs; a normal partment. Mr. me if I Delci did ask sister; worker; but also someone written-type give recommendation fall under the bad influence of who seemed did, prosecutor] I [the Mr. Imbordino codefendant, Leisure, mar- Matt and then him that I I advised did not and that would ijuana. my simply make to the remarks Court. So, presen- hoping copy here I am We reiterate have one —I hearing, his client with me. It on the teneing counsel asked has some notes provide family for a of witnesses who back so can’t with it his client’s list the Court but, today, perhaps, if willing testify he has received would it, provide behalf. is able to The record shows that tracked not, copy point him get fine. If I will another to this to let me decide whether know, or not he live or Court. should die. We obviously, large mitigating one circum- THE I will state that the COURT: *12 age. stance to Mr. has is his I Probation Officer does not have it. will consideration, The Court can take that into my copy bailiff make a of it before one, I but think that is the obvious you today leave so I will have it. And, I young that have a client. he was MR. I don’t have it with me. DELCI: young at the time of the commission of this preparation supplemental re- The But, really and, I nothing act. found available, port progress. is in It will be again, I don’t know if the Court wanted including the materials that have been re- more, any it point but disturbed me to the ceived. to where I myself wanted to address to it. you. MR. FELDHACKER: Fine. Thank That I think something there should be thought forthcoming. I there was one more before this Court. Whether it is sure, course, I am not of what all is upon people my incumbent who find client going supplemental report, to inbe think, say, perhaps, has no remorse to I couple things there is a that struck me should be get, possibly, looked so we can through report I it read con- psychiatric a evaluation to determine report cerned not that’s before not, know, you whether or what his make- time, presen- the Court at this but also the is, up whether or not there ais remorseful report my that was to tence written as brought situation here involved and what previous client on conviction him to commit the acts that occurred. robbery charge. just anything, There doesn’t seem to be And, that that in both cases the all, about that. presentence officers have that indicated don’t, I didn’t feel and I still that I am in they particular my saw no remorse in position my a to tell this Court that client acts, example, for client either of the psychiatric needs evaluation for under- this homicide that occurred or for the rob- trial, standing going what is on bery past. occurred understanding today going what is or them, reports, I think in reading go what will sentencing, on at his because show, obviously, my client is I know he does He knows understand. accepting responsibility of what oc- communications me what these But, again, curred and what his acts were. proceedings why they are and are occur- they simply opinions relate in their a lack And, ring. yet, just I wanted to address of remorse. myself to that as to whether or not the thing me concerned about going Court is to consider that it wants or just is to tell this Court that there is no desires that further information —I am not thought, surely, remorse. I someone telling you legal that I think there is might go deeper want to a little in that or it, I ground saying am not that I think just saying, everyone into that or are we that it is error for this Court to sentence that, way must show remorse the same type him without that of further informa- perhaps, you might expect I someone tion, I but was also disturbed on the fact to, by expressing outwardly either the sor- my that there was no contact with client’s know, by, you outwardly showing row family, attempts go out and see remorse; physical appearances crying, something something more. Is there more whatever. give to this Court as far as And, superficial it seems me little my circumstances of client? just say that I see the of this case. facts killing. my job. It I is brutal It is a atrocious That is I have done as best as therefore, and, killing Many people It he must receive the can. is a decision. are penalty. killing death know if the of this and are don’t aware the facts about, know, questions you giving further concerned about the Court further Gerlaugh, brought who is Darrick what information. attorney-client relation- going' inquire. the Court I was
THE COURT: ship- purposes of this hear- that one Isn’t bring forth the defendant to
ing, to enable THE COURT: I understand. any of the information that he to the Court It makes diffi- MR. FELDHACKER: presented? feels has not anything that I Today I don’t have cult. that, say Absolutely, going am to the Court about with- FELDHACKER: MR. - doubt, saying, that why I am out today, responsibility here as well. my telling THE If what are COURT: But, all have in the again, I think we people is that not all show remorse me - Department as well as defense Probation ways the same *13 this as much infor- give counsel to Court sincerely MR. I be- FELDHACKER: person. they can about the mation as that. lieve And, only really, those are the comments I, certainly, might THE be COURT: just making as far as I have at this time agree inclined to with statement. my feelings as to aware of the Court That is all I MR. FELDHACKER: might fur- not the Court want whether or have, Your Honor. particular on this ease information ther THE Mr. Imbordino. COURT: that, you I fact that think based on the Honor, MR. Your IMBORDINO: know, report, reading probation it myself to at thing I would address crime in that I have to be a terrible seems the comment that Mr. this time would be anything bad before. Ev- never seen on his client’s remorse stated. Feldhacker death, therefore, obvi- eryone recommends apparent, I think that is the lack of say. nothing good to That’s ously, there is- remorse, apparent is from the statements the end of it. that he made to the Probation Officer that as an officer of the just I believe preparation report. report re- am, Court, I which the Probation by the defen- fers to the statements made are, greater a little obli- there is Officers arrested, dant at the time he was when he opposed simply saying, gation there as question by police offi- was asked my has no remorse. client cers, killing how he felt about Mr. you, here and tell Your I can stand said, And, “It Schwartz. Mr. Honor, my remorse client about just killing animal.” He like an have, but, again, Mr. Imbordino can stand no remorse at that time to those showed any, so, up say, he has never shown police officers. any. just Those are words doesn’t questioned He was the Probation Of- people deep- coming that are from that are and, thing apparently, ficer on the same I, really, ly involved in this and believe reaction, lack of the same showed same if thinks that it’s this Court decision lack of remorse. all, may tip, my on whether or not client it, say All I can if I is that he felt don’t simply so cold-blooded and committed Court, important whether it is to this know murder or had a remorseful cold-blooded he, remorse, whether or not he feels but situation, right whether be afterwards certainly, opportunity has to ex- time, I think point at this then the Court press it and he didn’t do so. asking psychiatric might consider I, specifically, during did not testing. evaluation and bring very out those statements of the Certainly, I THE would be COURT: trying I I defendant because felt since was you say happy anything have to to listen two defendants at the same time didn’t expressions regarding your opinions or on unduly prejudice want to Mr. Encinas with you, certainly want to inform remorse the. Gerlaugh, Mr. I think it the remarks of of. Court report they were is evident from the Mr. has admitted to MR. A lot of times made and FELDHACKER: making there them. problems are real when we address Imbordino, I might THE Mr. will This court be well COURT: aware of the this, say in matters of this nature that I many fact made a record times on anything more seri- I cannot conceive the fact that this Court should consider Every important to this demanding prosecution ous. factor theory elect which going make its under, and the Court is going jury he was whether it on all informa- premeditated determinations based murder or murder felo- I have to me in accor- ny. tion available This Court did not do that. with the statutes.
dance give I then later asked the Court to jury separate forms of verdict so that we judgment day, On the counsel made anoth- would know what kind of verdict attempt penalty by er to derail death with, premedi- came back whether it was waiting imposed until sentence had been tated murder or whether it was murder charges interrupting non-death then felony. jeopardy. a claim of double legal appearing, that, therefore, THE No cause COURT: This Court did not do robbery], it is again [armed Count One I think we are left a dilemma that to the De- ordered committed I think must my be resolved favor of partment period for a of 21 Corrections client wherein the Court virtue of dou- *14 years. [kidnapping], As to Two it is jeopardy my Court ble cannot now sentence you to the De- ordered committed client on degree murder first since the partment period for a of 21 Corrections has him Court sentenced on the two lesser years. sentencing The on each count shall underlying robbery eases armed and however, concurrently; run for the reasons kidnapping, arising all out of the same just that I aggravating stated as to circumstance. circumstances, the sentences as to Counts all I That’s have as far as the record is consecutively run One and Two shall to the concerned, Your Honor. imposed in sentences cause number THE Mr. COURT: Imbordino. 103047, and as to Two in Counts One and it, reply MR. I IMBORDINO: have no on 110814, you given cause number shall be Your Honor. days you for 377 in credit have served THE I take it this COURT: amounts sentencing. incarceration objection legal as cause from Three, legal ap- As to Count cause proceeding sentencing, with but effect pearing- point finding motion to dismiss this Brown, Judge MR. FELDHACKER: as to guilt judgment guilt by entered Three, I think I Count would like to state extent, your request the Court and to that something legal as to cause on that. motion is denied. Proceed, please. THE COURT: proceed sentencing will with Court record, MR. For the FELDHACKER: as to Three. Court
believe that now that the has en- Court failed, Although attempt conclusively this judgment guilt tered and sentence as to demonstrates that counsel had neither des Two, Counts One and the Court is now client, erted nor forsaken his and that as an prohibited sentencing my from client on adversary reaching everything he was for he Three, Oklahoma, Harris v. Court which is of, think straws. could even We note that 53 L.Ed.2d jeopardy similar claim of double was filed as clearly a 1977 case wherein the case part 7 in Claim the district court as of this felony shows that a conviction for a mur- petition, appeal. on are abandoned We underlying der bars a trial even for felo- not satisfied in Cronic terms that counsel talking nies. What are about of “entirely subject prosecution’s fail[ed] you course is that where have a ease where meaningful testing.” case to adversarial charged robbery someone is with armed 659, 104 at 2047. charged and then also with a murder felo- ny try Gerlaugh argues cannot and convict on his trial them required by all of those counts. the Sixth Amendment to ask the leniency. being preci- This claim court for marked debasement and sentencing sion_ as we must absolutely When we examine This demon- has no merit. offense prej- deficiency for alleged nonstructural regard this strates the defendant’s total lack of udice, clearly amount of thea- turn, that no we see suffering.” for human life or human have made difference trics could the Arizona said its inde- himself Darrick sentenced case. pendent regarding review .of the evidence when, robbery, probation on for while death aggravating circumstances: savage led and relentless mounted and It is obvious in this the evidence to kill his designed attack on Scott Schwartz beyond case takes it far the norm homi- prison. himself from Ger- victim and to save imposition penalty cides. The of the death previous experi- full well from laugh knew here cannot be as an characterized arbi- him if he law awaited with the what ences trary capricious imposition pen- of that a vicious victim behind. When left a live alty. appears As this case to be an exam- accomplish his merciless ob- beating couldn’t ple of the most extreme factual situations own jective, used Mr. Schwartz’s virtually pur- no mitigation, no useful down, run him over and over. One car to pose comparing, would be dis- served help- imagine Gerlaugh’s can the terror citing cussing or homicide cases. other have felt target outnumbered must less and lonely life on that as he scrambled imposition We affirm the of the death with a ramming But Mr. Schwartz road. penalty. either, enough so moving vehicle 89, 90, Gerlaugh, State 135 Ariz. 659 P.2d him Gerlaugh decided to death shred 642, 643 him, weight car’s its placing the tire and alive, and then while Mr. Schwartz was still this, all of Given we are confident that no Mr. man- popping the clutch. How Schwartz mercy plea leniency on Mr. *15 brutality to com- aged survive this is hard behalf, indeed oral on his be- prehend, single-minded but he did. A Ger- half, could have altered what Mr. however, laugh, was not finished. As Mr. Gerlaugh’s age himself set motion. Even life, pleaded locat- Schwartz help adjudged him does not because he was repeatedly plunged it a screwdriver and ed by mature the trial Arizona court. Under until into Mr. Schwartz’s face and neck law, implications age the of the of a defen- courageous him of his hold on life drained are considered in light dant of will One need and his tenacious to survive. history. In discussing criminal whether Ger- length ponder at to realize what fate laugh’s age mitigating was a fac- substantial escaped. Mr. Roche Live awaited had he not tor, Supreme the Arizona Court noted robbery Gerlaugh’s victims were not on previously Petitioner had been convicted of especially place him agenda, those who could robbery at age armed of 17. Four vicinity of the Schwartz murder. case, days peti- before murder behavior, Gerlaugh Against this barbaric participated tioner in a similar armed rob- mitigating muster no substantial cir- could bery, kidnapping, attempted and murder cumstances, and he has been unable to do so with codefendant Matthew Leisure. See notwithstanding dogged ef- to this date Decision, Gerlaugh [Memorandum State v. attorneys. forts of his able The best his 1982], 5309, 10, 1No. CA-CR filed June parents suggest in his could do was forcibly Petitioner Leisure entered elders, days, younger he had been kind to his Gentry gunpoint. car of Tobin at After dogs, and to To review this rodents. location, driving to an isolated desert photographs scenario and examine the victim was forced to lie on his stomach. the screwdriver on Mr. Schwartz’s wounds job, good told Petitioner Leisure to “do $37.00, corpse, all for battered and mutilated pumped four make sure” and Leisure then understanding thorough leaves us with a into the bullets victim’s back. why said, the trial court “The crime and (brackets 461, particularly Ariz. at 698 at 706 the manner of its commission 144 P.2d was shockingly gives well grossly original). Parenthetically, evil bad as this incident
1043
Gerlaugh’s analogy
substance to
circumstances
considerable
did not warrant
killing game
killing people.
695,
death.” Id. at
Hendricks v.
70 F.3d
given
had not
adequately
narrow
—
(9th Cir.1995),
denied,
—,
cert.
U.S.
Supreme
construction
the Arizona
116 S.Ct.
Arizona
nothing
change
There is
about the
the
requirement.
this
dressed
robbery
for
Ger
maximum sentence
after
use of
laugh’s conviction that makes the
the
C.
actually given
life sentence
offensive
aggravating
factor
As to
second
arbitrary under
the Constitution.
pecuniary
offense was committed
that the
703(F)(5), petitioner
§
A.R.S.
gain, see
13—
E.
(1) that the evidence adduced at
complains
(2)
support
finding,
not
the
that
the trial did
that neither
claims
the
Petitioner
inappro
to this factor were
the facts relevant
nor
trial court
the Arizona
(F)(5)
the
priately considered
to both
and
statutory
properly
mitigating
considered
(3)
(F)(6) factors,
and
that
Arizona
on his behalf. The
circumstances advanced
with con
“wholly dispensed
Supreme Court
parsed
this assertion
district court
out
independent
of this fac
ducting an
review”
points,
the evidence to which
support
alle
record does not
these
tor. The
wanting.
claim
do
'found the
to be
So
we.
note as
the district court
gations. We
adequate
We find
consideration
record
sentencing
following
court said the
that the
intoxicants, cooperation
age,
of his
use of
special verdict:
in a
intent,
police,
good
with the
character evi
upon the
Based
recent decisions
dence,
unequally-
the life
of his
sentence
interpreting
of Arizona
Supreme Court
culpable
by
holding
our
eodefendant. Guided
aggravating circumstance and
fact
(9th
Ricketts,
851,
v.
F.2d
858
Clark
clearly
that
the evidence at
shows Cir.1992),
process
“[t]he
due
clause does
and did obtain
intended
obtain
require
sentencing
court
exhaus
vic-
money from the victim as well as the
tively
analysis
mitigat
of each
document its
automobile,
finds that
tim’s
the Court
reviewing
ing
long
factor as
as a
federal
con-
did commit the offense as
defendant
court can discern from the record that the
expecta-
receipt
or in the
sideration
court
all the
state
did indeed consider
miti
receipt
something
pecuni-
tion
defendant,”
gating
by
evidence
offered
ary value.
process
is
we conclude
due
satisfied.
308, 314,
v. Dugger,
also Parker
498 U.S.
See
finding
clearly supported
This
731, 735-36,
1045 (9th Lewis, 1301, Cir.), 80 F.3d 1309 cert. been different had counsel raised — denied, —, 588, forum penalty-phase 117 S.Ct. 136 issues that are raised here. L.Ed.2d
AFFIRMED.
G.
REINHARDT,
Judge,
Circuit
concurring
attempts
Petitioner next
to elevate
dissenting:
post-conviction
alleged errors Arizona’s
re
I agree
While
with the majority that we
proceedings
lief
to federal constitutional sta
should affirm
Gerlaugh’s conviction,
Darrick
attempt
This
fails
tus.
under Franzen v.
agree
do not
ignore
that we can
his coun
(9th
Brinkman,
26,
Cir.1989),
877 F.2d
any
sel’s failure to
argument
make
why
as to
concerning
where we held that errors
such a
penalty
the death
imposed—
should not be
cognizable
are not
in federal habeas
any
indeed to
closing argument
make
at all
proceedings.
during
penalty phase
Gerlaugh’s capi
tal proceeding. Gerlaugh simply did not re
III
constitutionally
ceive the
required effective
assistance of counsel at
the most critical
Appeal
Counsel’s Performance
stage
proceeding
of the
a time when he
—at
Gerlaugh’s counsel
a
made
deliber most needed that assistance. Under United
appeal
ate tactical decision on
to address
Cronic,
648, 104
States v.
466 U.S.
those issues that
related
the conviction
(1984),
request that he sentenced court, rambling colloquy with the is simply tenet reflects a basic requirement quoted majority, almost in full the adversarial defendant’s —that only point understand that the counsel ever represented before the court. interests be hearing, to make and intended at that obligation of precisely That is defense only subject actually discussed counsel, particularly when the issue time, presentence was his contention that the right to live. client’s report inadequate was further in- By vestigation necessary half-hearted to defend coun- was before the its efforts final report point during presentencing comments was At no did Ger- sel’s submitted. portray closing argu- hearing laugh’s challenge government’s them as a counsel ment, executed, in its to have nor ultimate conclusion desire did he require purport does not counsel to to discuss the factors the Constitution how court life, majority plead required weighed client’s for his reveals consider should misunderstanding of counsel’s or what concerns should influence the fundamental court process. reaching What Ger- its role in the adversarial ultimate decision. He made to, clearly respect laugh and what he no effort to the court with entitled influence have, position lawyer weighing aggravating was a who took a to its task of fac- government’s position against fa- opposite tors circumstances and —a provid- closing argument consider 2. While the could have 1.I do not here whether assistance counsel under Strick- presentencing hearing ed effective either at the made Washington, land v. 2052, following hearing, sentencing, the actual (1984), when he 80 L.Ed.2d conducted counsel did not make an on either investigation questioned the witnesses he occasion. penalty question phase. called That wholly my irrelevant to on which I base the issue note 3. But see infra dissent. *19 making of life-or-death in judgment proceeded present the then analy- Counsel to his sought only report exercise of its discretion. He to sis and criticism the of that had been complain presentence report about the and to submitted and to voice his concerns about the thorough helpful obtain a more and more of sort information that should be included in supplemental report supplemental report for use in connection the Mr. Delci was in the with sentencing process. preparing. the ultimate questioned, Counsel example, whether
Notwithstanding the clear record to the report the initial thorough was as itas should contrary, majority represents the that coun- respect be to his apparent client’s lack arguments sel an made several in effort to remorse. majority While the would have My save colleagues his client’s life. are not us believe that “counsel vigorously took ex- simply correct: there’s there. there The ception presen- to the conclusions” in the majority statements to which the refers did report, if tence even he had that would not not constitute and were not to con- intended change the fact that he was simply address- an argument regarding stitute whether or ing quality the report of the die, and what re- not Gerlaugh should none of them mained to supplemental be done the re- constituted or was intended to constitute is, however, port. The fact that the sort of imposition the of a exception took to report’s counsel the conclu- Although spoke lifetime sentence. counsel premature was that sions were mitigating that factors were absent from the —counsel not, asserts, majority as “argue did the presentence di- report, expressed clearly the rectly ... that client accept responsi- his purpose presentation of his entire not to bility done, for what he had that [Ger- convince the court factors laugh] did factors, demonstrate in his own remorse outweighed aggravating but rath- way.” Counsel never even the court told presentence report inadequately er that the presentence inaccurate; report that the subjects probation treated those and that the instead, he made clear in bumbling way department needed to do work more before purpose commenting was limited properly. sentence could be determined persuading obtaining to the court that fur- very beginning From the of counsel’s com- ther information was desirable: court, ments to the he made it clear that he [T]hose are the comments have at presentencing did not hearing conceive just this time as making as far the Court closing argument. as the time for Immedi- my feelings aware of as to whether or not ately after the conclusion of witness testimo- might want farther information ny, expressed intent comment particular on this case based on the fact specifically report’s shortcomings. on the that, know, that I think reading the time, He stated to the court: “At this Your probation report, it seems to abe terrible Honor, pres- I have no further witnesses to crime in anything that I have never seen ent to the I have some Court. comments this bad before. that I would make.” The court reminded he, experienced Counsel’s admission an counsel that opportunity he would have the capital lawyer, anything had never seen sentencing make comments part this bad before could have been However, hearing. explained counsel then attempt impose convince court to purpose of the remarks intended he Moreover, life sentence. although men- make, stating: “One of the reasons I basic possible mitigating tioned factors were today wanted to make some comments report, from absent counsel did not ask opposed waiting is because I have had an the court to consider these factors deter- opportunity talk with Ed Delci who is mining imposed. to be What he sentence doing presentence report.” After the subject was interested in was a different present court Mr. observed that Delci was entirely might further information courtroom, —what counsel stated: “I’m not sure brought court. before the supplemental what all going to be in the report, couple things majority, arguing [are] there that counsel did client, through report.” clings struck me as I read not abandon his to counsel’s *20 remorse, argue his client’s age argues that invitation to about Gerlaugh’s and to reference “Today have quickly begged In- off: I don’t mitigating factor. but youth as he raised say Court deed, anything going have that that I am to to the majority would us believe the Op. implication of coun- age.” his client’s at about that.” The natural “emphasized counsel speak that Ger- re- subject can be no doubt to on the -. There sel’s refusal if argu- morse, attorney closing made a rest laugh’s implication had the natural like ment, part remarks, in significant saving relied was his he would have his was that he miti- age important is an day, on client’s that was sav- arguments his for another he —it happened not But that’s what gating sentencing hearing factor. when ing them for the Instead, simply pointed to counsel his here. report would have been supplemental the entirely did so for an age, he client’s the prepared parties to and submitted argue purpose. Counsel did different the court. youth mitigating fac- Gerlaugh’s was that Gerlaugh’s colloquy The between entire tor; pointed age was he out that the rather presen- the trial the counsel and court factor in order only mitigating to obvious tencing hearing abundantly clear makes it report’s inadequacy the demonstrate —be- present to his that counsel did not intend report the age cause was the factor closing to until he had argument the court discussing noted in As counsel identified. report supplemental in hand. It is there- the presentence report: the that hear- astonishing sentencing fore at the And, superficial me a little it seems to supplemental report finally ing, after the the just say I see facts of this to that filed, completed and counsel failed still know, obviously, large one case.... We present any argument on his closing to that circumstance Mr. mitigating following the client’s behalf. The reflects take age. has his The Court can that entirety pre- comments of defense counsel’s consideration, I but think that is the into ceding sentencing: one, I young have a only obvious [Counsel], you anything COURT: do have And, young the time was at client. say? to But, really this act. I the commission Honor, I Your have reviewed COUNSEL: and, nothing report], again, [in the I found supple- report and presentence both more, if the Court wanted don’t know report, all mental and I think contain point where I me to to disturbed this should at matters consider myself That to address to it. I wanted time, nothing further to have something should be more be- think there say. fore this Court. Incredibly, attempt counsel made no whatso- referring report clearly was Counsel challenge apparent presumption to ever be, not, but was in it. He and what should own) part everyone’s (possibly on even trying persuade was to the court that sentence; a death deserved preclude a Gerlaugh’s youth should death explain cir- nor did he what the sentence, urging to nor was he the court take (and several). cumstances were there were youth into account in the sentenc- client’s Rather, point proceed- crucial saying ing simply decision. He absolutely ing, nothing said on counsel than about there be more should client’s behalf. report. mitigating factors in the sum, hearing, suggested presentencing that the “some- When counsel thing report psychi- to what further should be counsel chose discuss more” evaluation, explained supplemental the court to him work to be done on the atric needed happy presentence report, to that’s At the anything that “I would listen to all. say your opinions hearing, nothing whatso- regarding sentencing he said have result, closing expressions you[ certainly remorse want ever. ] As Gerlaugh during the Court of.” Counsel made a ever made on behalf of inform the attempt respond penalty phase proceeding.4 the court’s stuttering sentence, began impose Gerlaugh's 4. During hearing, counsel sentencing alter court ably majority’s conclusion exclusively decided focus on the *21 closing argu- obviously not during losing abandon issues Gerlaugh’s related to obviously conviction, by underlying its view that particularly ap- ment is influenced as the any closing pellate required would reweigh effort at a statement have court was to the effect, majority argues In aggravating been useless. the and ir- circumstances respective client that counsel did desert his because of Gerlaugh actually whether Thus, argument there was no to be made on the raised the issue. unlike deficient most counsel, strongly disagree, Ghent’s behalf. both a counsel had second any Indeed, practically legally. In case appeal, and there clear chance. on validity the arguments are to be sides. In the made on both of sentence was the issue that the significant specifically required this case there were several miti- law to the court consid- gating Nevertheless, urged factors counsel could have er. counsel continued to re- upon deciding as the court reasons for not to main making any silent —to refrain from ar- impose punishment. ultimate gument. court, the He could inAs the trial counsel did explained why have these factors warranted not act as an advocate for his on client the judicial issue, the in sentencing exercise of discretion favor of persisted instead the Instead, sparing Gerlaugh’s life. he ques- said belief he had no to responsibility York, nothing. Herring sentencing See also v. New judge’s tion the determination to 853, 860, 2550, 2554, impose punishment U.S. 95 S.Ct. 45 L.Ed.2d the ultimate Gerlaugh. (1975) (discussed H.A.). so, By Part doing again accepted he a sen- death infra tence for his client without engaging the Balancing ag- the mitigating and factors — process again adversarial and assured that judicial gravating the exercise —involves put unless, his client would be to death — judgment. discretion and When such balanc- course, enough a later court was careful its ing required, is it is duty the defense analysis enough applying and committed to argue why counsel to the balance should be properly law to recognize the struck in his client’s favor. No matter how obligations abandoned his as counsel. great against the seem odds to be win- ning argument, the must make counsel the II. Counsel’s Silence Constitutes best case he can. It is not counsel’s role to a Cronic Violation advocate, judge any act as as as more well than it is district the court’s or this court’s A. well, say, role to “Oh his client would have closing argu- Counsel’s failure to amake anyway. lost argument, He had a bad so penalty phase ment of the trial any argu-
there’s no need for him to make
representation
by
denied
counsel at
ment at all—no need to advocate —no need
stage
sentencing proceeding
a critical
of the
by
representation
That
counsel.”
kind of
princi-
in violation
basic
of the
constitutional
reasoning
squarely contrary
to the elemen-
Cronic,
ples set
forth
States v.
United
tary precepts
adversary system.
of the
Swanson,
1070,
943
1074
F.2d
The Swanson decision is likewise consis-
during
of his client
counsel’s abandonment
heightened need
tent with the
for reliable
“a
closing argument
breakdown
our
causes
proceedings
capital
every per-
cases. Not
system justice ...
com-
of
adversarial
of
son who has been convicted murder de-
exception
pels
application of the Cronic
to
principal
an
of
serves
be executed. One
the
requirement.”
If
[prejudice]
purposes
capital
identify
the
of a
trial is to
Strickland
those
effectively without the
should be
to death for their
a
is
benefit who
sentenced
defendant
crimes,
a
those
not.
during closing argument,
funda-
who should
See
of counsel
Carolina,
280,
v. North
Woodson
process
in the adversarial
mental breakdown
2978, 2991-92,
96
49
S.Ct.
L.Ed.2d 944
simply
it
does not matter
has occurred and
(1976) (plurality opinion). There is no more
what
have done
to that
counsel
important
equity
hearing
law or
than the
point
what effect or lack of effect the
phase
capital
penalty
of a
trial.
In a
closing argu-
that a
reviewing court thinks
arbitrariness,
already plagued by
right
the
on
might
ment
the outcome of
penalty-
counsel ensures that the results of
proceeding.
phase proceedings
possible.
are
reliable
as
attorney’s
conclusion that an
Swanson’s
of
The determination
who should live and
during closing
of his client
ar-
abandonment
who should
is
at
of an
die
arrived
means
gument
a
constitutes
fundamental error
hearing
govern-
adversarial
which the
requires
keeping
in and
is
of itself
reversal
position that
ment’s
the defendant should be
requirement
fact that the
of adver-
put
sentenced to death is
the test
advocacy
sarial
extends
to counsel’s
Closing argument
is
defense counsel.
evidence,
presentation
exculpatory
of
part
part
that proceeding,
essential
of
at
presentation
closing argu-
also
of a
vigorous advocacy
qua
non.
which
sine
York,
Herring
ment.
New
422
U.S.
very
adversary system
of
premise
“The
our
2550, 2553-54,
L.Ed.2d
justice
partisan advocacy
of criminal
is that
concluded,
theAs
Swanson court
promote
best
on both sides of case will
obligation
trial,
there is a constitutional
on defense
objective....
ultimate
In a criminal
basically
“to function as
Government’s ad-
is in
end
factfinding
versary”
argument.
process,
aspect
advocacy
at
the time
of such
could be
Swanson,
important
opportunity finally
than the
closing
in bench
and sug-
gesting
may
B.
summations
be even more
factfinder).
important
only
if there is
one
majority
inability
The
carries its
to distin
Additionally,
arguments
final
further one
guish
from
Cronic
Strickland error to its
significant
of the most
values in a criminal
logical
applies
conclusion. It
er
harmless
trial,
process
the adversarial
Without
itself.
performance.
ror
test to counsel’s
Not
question,
process
the adversarial
is the hall-
analysis
is this
in
harmless error
conflict with
system justice.
attorney’s
mark
our
of
of
An
Sivanson,
Cronic and
but it is also at odds
of
stage
desertion
his client at a critical
of
proposition
the more basic
that certain
proceeding
premise
very
undermines
kinds of error are so fundamental
that we
of this
the issues
the evi-
—that
presume prejudice.
must
apparent
It is
sharpened by
dence will be clarified and
an attorney’s
of
abandonment
his client at
presentations
vigorous
from both sides.
critical
stage
proceeding
constitutes
When a defendant
this mo-
is abandoned at
structural error as
v.
defined
Arizona
ment,
was,
Gerlaugh
there
not been
has
Fulminante,
279, 310,
49 U.S.
an
simply
presentation
error in the
of evi-
(1991).
1246, 1265, 113
an
L.Ed.2d 302
Such
dence:
there has
alteration
error not
alters the
basic framework
very
framework of
trial.
When
trial,
a criminal
it also undermines values
trial,
capital
in a
alteration occurs
the unac-
system jus
that are
fundamental
our
ceptable
consequences
and unconstitutional
Olano,
tice. See
F.3d
United States v.
egregious.
are at their most
(9th Cir.1995)
J.,
(Reinhardt,
1207-10
dissenting)
(elaborating on the
nature
—
errors),
denied,
structural
cert.
Because
was denied the benefit
-,
stage
capital
sentencing issues. penalty on the the death
imposition of effective assis- lacked
ground that stage at a critical
tance of counsel
proceeding. ENVIRONMENTAL
In re NATIONAL CORP., a California
WASTE
corporation, Debtor. ENVIRONMENTAL WASTE
NATIONAL corporation,
CORP., a California
Appellant, RIVERSIDE, political
CITY OF *24 of the State
subdivision
California, Appellee.
In re NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL CORP., a California
WASTE
corporation, Debtor. RIVERSIDE, political
CITY OF State
subdivision
California, Appellant,
NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL WASTE corporation,
CORP., a California
Appellee. 96-55825, 96-55852.
Nos. Appeals, Court of
United States
Ninth Circuit.
Argued and Submitted Oct. 1997. Nov.
Decided
