Section 15-12-20 Matters to be ascertained by trial judges as to representation of defendants prior to arraignment.
Section 15-12-20
Matters to be ascertained by trial judges as to representation of defendants prior to arraignment.
In all criminal cases, including paternity cases, and civil and criminal nonsupport cases which may result in the jailing of the defendant, in any court of this state created by authority of the Constitution of 1901, as amended, when a defendant is entitled to counsel as provided by law, the trial judge shall before arraignment ascertain from the accused, or otherwise:
(1) Whether or not the defendant has arranged to be represented by counsel;
(2) Whether or not the defendant desires the assistance of counsel; and
(3) Whether or not the defendant is able financially or otherwise to obtain the assistance of counsel.
(Acts 1963, No. 526, p. 1136, §1; Acts 1971, No. 2420, p. 3851; Acts 1975, No. 1205, §9-108; Acts 1984, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 84-793, p. 198, §1.)