Brian Ward Coulter v. The State of Texas

Summary

The First Court of Appeals of Texas reviewed Brian Ward Coulter’s Anders appeal from a capital-murder conviction and life-without-parole sentence. The court found no reversible error or arguable grounds for review, affirmed the trial court’s judgment, and granted appointed counsel’s motion to withdraw.

Holdings

1. In an Anders appeal, the reviewing court—not appointed counsel—must independently examine the entire record to determine whether any arguable grounds for review or reversible error exist.
2. Counsel's Anders brief and motion to withdraw complied with the Anders requirements because counsel professionally evaluated the record, provided record references and legal authority, informed Coulter of his rights, and provided access to the appellate record.
3. The record contained no reversible error and presented no arguable grounds for review; the appeal was frivolous.

Questions Presented

1. Whether appointed appellate counsel satisfied the requirements for withdrawal under Anders v. California by filing a brief that professionally evaluated the record and identified no arguable grounds for reversal.
2. Whether the appellate court's independent review of the entire record disclosed any reversible error or arguable grounds for review.
3. Whether appointed counsel's motion to withdraw should be granted.

Disposition

affirmed