People v. Dennis CA2/5

Discussion Appellant filed a timely notice of appeal, and we appointed counsel to represent him on appeal. Appellant’s counsel filed an opening brief pursuant to People v. Wende (1979) 25 Cal.3d 436, and requested this court to independently review the record on appeal to determine whether any arguable issues exist. On June 10, 2014, we advised appellant he had 30 days in which to personally submit any contentions or issues which he wished us to consider. On July 9, 2014, we received a supplemental brief from appellant. In this brief, he alleges various errors arising before his no contest plea and also contends his trial counsel “pressured [him] under duress” to take the plea bargain. We have examined the entire record and are satisfied appellant’s attorney has fully complied with his responsibilities and no arguable issues exist. (People v. Wende, supra, 25 Cal.3d at p. 441.) Appellant has not obtained a certificate of probable cause, and so his claims may not be considered on appeal. This includes his claim that he was under duress when he entered into the plea agreement.3 It has long been established that issues going to the validity of a plea require compliance with section…