Here we present examples of ineffective assistance of counsel in the sentencing context. Learn what errors at sentencing might qualify you for 2255 relief.O A statement of law on the federal and state standards for ineffective assistance of counsel is included in the Sample and the Template 440. My son's attorney gave him an Ineffective Assistance of Counsel form to fill out but failed to tell him where to send. You need to tell the court that your public defender has not talked to you and ask the court to relieve the PD's office and appoint other counsel. For example, a defendant might allege that trial counsel failed to object to evidence, request a jury instruction, or call a witness. Frequently, our clients bring up ideas about their trial counsel being ineffective and wanting to raise this issue on appeal. Similar to determining reasonableness, the courts will review the facts and circumstances in a case. To file a motion for post-conviction relief, you will need to complete a form that is specific to the Virginia courts. The right to legal counsel originates in the sixth amendment to the United States Constitution.