Appeal Talk

Matt Baker files appeal, appointed new attorney
Tommy Witherspoon
WacoTrib.com

“I just didn’t have the heart for it,” said Gray, who served 25 years as the Jasper County district attorney before moving to Kerrville several years ago.

Despite Gray’s unusual post-trial comments, Schwieger said they likely won’t be fodder for his appeal.

“If his comments constitute violations of the professional rules of conduct, that does not affect the appeal,”Schwieger said. “That has nothing to do with the trial itself. If client confidences were disclosed, or whatever, at that point, it has nothing to do with the appellate process.” (read more)

FYI: The WacoTrib.com has a page that lists all their coverage on the Baker case. It's pretty handy for those catching up and keeping up with the case.

WacoTrib.com Baker Case

Gomer Pyle voice: "Surprise.....Surprise......"

Former Waco Pastor Matt Baker Files Notice Of Appeal

"WACO (January 25, 2010)—Matt Baker, 38, the former Baptist pastor who was sentenced to 65 years in prison Thursday for the 2006 murder of his wife Kari Lynn, will appeal his murder conviction.

Harold Danford, one of the two attorneys who represented Baker during the trial, filed notice of appeal late Monday afternoon.

Because Baker doesn’t have the money to hire an attorney to handle the appeal, State District Judge Ralph Strother said he appointed Waco lawyer Stan Schwieger to represent him." (read more)

I think Danford wanted to make darn sure that he did as much of his duty as he had to to not get in trouble and for the 2nd time, asked for and received his formal "withdraw from counsel" from Strother.

I don't know who this Schwieger attorney is....but I'll start praying for him. And if that doesn't work, I'll bet dollars to donuts Guy and Harold will be saving a seat for him for NinfaRitas all around.

More attorney shuffling........

Gray is back in the Baker saddle.

Former Waco-area pastor changes attorney defending him in his wife's death
Tommy Witherspoon
WacoTrib.com

"The former East Texas prosecutor who invited the media to come take their best shots at Matt Baker is back on the case." (read more)

I wonder if Ellison is ticked...or relieved.