Gideon v. Wainwright and Right to Counsel

The video discusses the landmark Supreme Court case Gideon v. Wainwright, which established the right to legal counsel for defendants unable to afford an attorney in all criminal trials. Clarence Gideon, an illiterate drifter, was denied a lawyer and convicted, leading him to petition the Supreme Court. The Court's unanimous decision under the Warren Court expanded the Sixth Amendment's right to counsel to all states through selective incorporation, significantly impacting the rights of the accused in the U.S.

What was the main legal issue in the Gideon v. Wainwright case?

• The right to an attorney

• The right to remain silent

• The right to a speedy trial

• The right to a jury trial

Why was Clarence Gideon unable to hire a lawyer for his defense?

• He was denied a lawyer due to the nature of his crime

• He refused legal assistance

• He could not afford one

• He was not aware of his rights

What action did Gideon take after being convicted?

• He accepted his sentence

• He filed a petition for a writ of habeas corpus

• He sought a presidential pardon

• He appealed to the local court

What was the Supreme Court's decision regarding the right to counsel?

• It is a fundamental right in all criminal trials

• It is only necessary for capital offenses

• It applies only to federal courts

• It is optional for state courts

Which court is known for expanding civil and criminal rights during its tenure?

• The Burger Court

• The Rehnquist Court

• The Roberts Court

• The Warren Court

What is selective incorporation?

• Applying international laws to the United States

• Applying federal laws to state governments

• Applying state laws to federal governments

• Applying certain rights in the Bill of Rights to the states

Which amendment is primarily associated with the right to counsel?

• Fourth Amendment

• Sixth Amendment

• Fifth Amendment

• Eighth Amendment

What was the outcome for Gideon after the Supreme Court's decision?

• He was fined but released

• He was granted a presidential pardon

• He remained in prison

• He was retried and acquitted

Which case is known for establishing the Miranda rights?

• Plessy v. Ferguson

• Roe v. Wade

• Miranda v. Arizona

• Brown v. Board of Education

Does the right to counsel apply to civil trials?

• Yes, in all cases

• Yes, but only in federal cases

• No, it applies only to state cases

• No, only in criminal trials