Gideon v. Wainwright [1963]
372 U.S. 335 (1963) · Supreme Court of the United States · United States
Summary
Core criminal procedure right-to-counsel case.
Facts
Clarence Gideon was denied appointed counsel for a felony trial in state court.
Issue
Does the Sixth Amendment right to counsel apply to state felony prosecutions?
Held
Yes. Indigent felony defendants must receive appointed counsel.
Ratio Decidendi
States must provide counsel to indigent defendants charged with serious crimes.
Reasoning
Counsel is fundamental to a fair trial and incorporated against the states.
Significance
Core criminal procedure right-to-counsel case.
Related Cases
No related cases listed.
Exam Tips
Review the ratio and reasoning before applying this case in problem questions.