Self-representation

CARSON CITY, Nev. — A trial court “inappropriately disparaged” a defendant’s decision to represent himself in his trial for sex trafficking a child, kidnapping, and other charges, and did not properly ensure he understood the sentence he faced or the risks of waiving his right to counsel, the Nevada Supreme Court ruled. The court had warned the defendant that representing himself was “a bonehead move” and “so dumb and so stupid.”