Which of the following is NOT a right of the defendant under the CCP?

The right to free legal counsel is indeed a critical concept in the context of criminal trials, but it is not explicitly guaranteed under the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure (CCP) in the same manner as the other rights listed. While defendants in Texas do have the constitutional right to counsel, the provision for them to receive legal counsel at no cost is dependent on certain criteria, such as the defendant's financial ability. This means that while a defendant has the right to an attorney, that attorney may not always be provided for free unless the defendant qualifies for indigency status.

In comparison, the other rights mentioned are more definitively established as universal rights for defendants under the CCP. The right to a public trial ensures transparency and accountability within the legal process. The right to remain silent is a core component of safeguarding against self-incrimination, which is well recognized at both the state and federal levels. Finally, the right to appeal a verdict is a fundamental process in the judicial system that allows defendants to challenge convictions and seek justice through higher courts.

Therefore, while legal counsel is an essential aspect of a fair trial, the status of it being provided for free is qualified, making it distinct from the explicit rights of public trials, the right to silence, and the appellate