Joseph Chunestudy, Appellant v. State of Arkansas, Appellee

Summary

The Supreme Court of Arkansas affirmed the denial of Joseph Chunestudy's postconviction petition, holding that he failed to establish either deficient performance or prejudice under the applicable two-part ineffective-assistance standard. The court rejected claims concerning the directed-verdict motion, rebuttal and impeachment evidence, investigation, and appointment of counsel because the allegations were either meritless, conclusory, or unsupported by facts showing a different outcome. It also held that the cited federal authorities did not require appointment of counsel in the state collateral proceeding.