stand in his own defense, depending on what his defense is going to be.

His lawyer thus far has seemed inclined to want to get a doctor to examine him and give some testimony in mitigation. I.e., he seems like he's wanting to settle the case with a guilty plea rather than go to trial, and try to get some leniency at sentencing. He may not be aware of my friend's wishes yet, due to the difficulties in communicating while he's locked up and not able to meet very easily in person with Covid restrictions in place.