Sixth Amendment Rights

De novo review is appropriate when applying a constitutional standard or concept, not capable of precise articulation, to the facts of a particular case.  The appellate court reviews a district court's conclusions of law and interpretations of the Constitution or the rules of evidence, de novo.  State v. Mizenko, 2006 MT 11, ¶ 8, 330 Mont. 299, 127 P.3d 458.

We review de novo a district court's interpretation of the Sixth Amendment.  State v. Sanchez, 2008 MT 27, ¶ 15, 341 Mont. 240, 177 P.3d 444.

In determining whether the procedure followed at a defendant's trial complies with the Sixth Amendment, we address a question of constitutional law.  We exercise plenary review of questions of constitutional law.  State v. Carter, 2005 MT 87, ¶ 21, 326 Mont. 427, 114 P.3d 1001.