-
Powell v Alabama
It is decided by the Supreme Court that in the Powell v Alabama case, the defendants were not provided with legal counsel which was a violation of their constitutional rights. -
Gideon’s Arrest
Clarence Earl GIdeon is arrested in Florida. -
Gideon’s Trial
Gideon is denied legal counsel for his trial which requires him to represent himself. He ends up being convicted of felony breaking and entering and misdemeanor theft. -
Petition for Certiorari
Gideon writes to the Supreme Court a petition for certiorari for them to consider his case. The Supreme Court then sends this petition down to Florida courts for their input. -
Certiorari Granted
Gideon’s certiorari gets granted and the Supreme Court agrees to hear his case. -
Gideon v Wainwright Case
The case takes place, with a two and a half hour argument between both sides of counsel. -
Supreme Court’s Decision
It is decided that legal counsel is a fundamental part of the legal process and essential to have a fair trial, so Gideon’s original conviction is reversed. -
Gideon’s Second Trial
Gideon’s second trial takes place, this time with an appointed lawyer to defend him, and he is found not guilty. -
After Gideon
The president signs the Criminal Justice Act, providing funding for attorneys in federal cases which ensures everyone will have a right to a fair trial. It is estimated that around 2000 inmates were released from Florida prisons after the Supreme Court’s decision.