Since there is a “confession” this precludes the need for a trial. Hence a “sentencing hearing” is all that is necessary.........or is MO law different?...........
Hard to say precisely how it will go down. A confession of the crime does not preclude a trial, but you are right... if they plead guilty then no trial will be needed, only a sentencing hearing. OR, the defense may end up trying to suppress the confessions, and there is no telling where it will go from there. Of course, all death penalty cases, if thats what they are given, are automatically subject to appeal.
This case could be open and shut enough that they do not feel a need to appoint him.