2025 Session Last amended: 1999 session

§ 611.19 — Waiver of Appointment of Counsel

Plain-Language Summary

If a defendant decides to give up their right to a lawyer, they must put that decision in writing and sign it. If the defendant refuses to sign, the court must make a record showing that the defendant refused to have a lawyer. For juveniles in delinquency cases, separate rules apply under section 260B.163.

611.19 WAIVER OF APPOINTMENT OF COUNSEL.

Where counsel is waived by a defendant, the waiver shall in all instances be made in writing, signed by the defendant, except that in such situation if the defendant refuses to sign the written waiver, then the court shall make a record evidencing such refusal of counsel. Waiver of counsel by a child who is the subject of a delinquency or extended jurisdiction juvenile proceeding is governed by section 260B.163, subdivisions 4 and 10.

History:

1965 c 869 s 6; 1994 c 576 s 51; 1999 c 139 art 4 s 2

History: History: 1965 c 869 s 6; 1994 c 576 s 51; 1999 c 139 art 4 s 2

Practical Notes

Waiving your right to a lawyer is a serious decision. The court requires written proof that you made this choice voluntarily. If you refuse to sign the waiver form, the judge will note your refusal on the record. Think carefully before giving up your right to counsel, as representing yourself in a criminal case is very difficult.

Source: Minnesota Office of the Revisor of Statutes