Gideon V.
Wainwright
Cody Lee | Reed Elenz |
1st period
1963
Background
In 1963, Clarence Earl Gideon was accused of breaking into a poolroom and was charged with a felony in the Florida state
court. Because he couldn’t afford a lawyer, he asked the state to provide one. The state's response was that an attorney may
only be appointed in capital cases, forcing Gideon to represent himself in trial. He was found guilty and sentenced to prison for
5 years. Gideon filed a habeas corpus petition towards the Florida Supreme Court, stating that the State Court violated his
constitutional right to be represented fairly. The Florida Supreme Court denied his request. A writ of habeas corpus is used to
bring a prisoner before the court to determine if the person’s imprisonment is lawful. Gideon then filed a handwritten petition
to the U.S. Supreme Court, questioning his protection under the 6th amendment.
Constitutional Issue
This case goes against the 6th Amendment.
The 6th Amendment guarantees the rights of criminal defendants, including the
right to a lawyer.
Mr. Gideon is not given a lawyer, making this case Unconstitutional.
President During The Case - John F
Kennedy
Supreme Court Decision
The Supreme Court ruled in 9-0 favor of Gideon. The court stated it was consistent
with the Constitution’s 6th amendment to be guaranteed a fair legal counsel.
Gideon was given another trial with a lawyer and was acquitted of the charges.
Sources
https://www.thinglink.com/scene/634363216700375042
https://www.law.cornell.edu/constitution/sixth_amendment\
https://www.oyez.org/cases/1962/155
http://www.uscourts.gov/educational-resources/educational-activities/facts-andcase-summary-gideon-v-wainwright