Published on: Monday, May 26, 2025
Missouri man is going to trial for dealing meth when he tries to fire his (second) lawyer and defend himself pro se. District court: That's "not a very good decision." Even if you were a lawyer, "pro se is a bad decision." Defendant: Whatever. Court: OK, fine. Defendant is then convicted, receiving 25 years in the slammer. Defendant: Insufficient warning to constitute valid waiver. Gov't: Word. Eighth Circuit: This waiver was not made "knowingly, voluntarily, and intelligently." Judgment vacated and remanded.
The case is United States v. Thomas Pitts, No. 24-1154 (8th Cir. 2025)