Gideon v. Wainwright (1963)
Definition
A Supreme Court case that ruled states are required under the Sixth Amendment to provide an attorney in criminal cases for defendants unable to afford their own attorneys.
Analogy
Imagine you're at a school debate competition but you don't have a coach while everyone else does. The school then decides it's only fair if they provide a coach for those who can't afford one - this is similar to how Gideon v. Wainwright ensures everyone gets legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.
Related terms
Sixth Amendment: Part of U.S. Constitution ensuring rights related to criminal prosecutions, including right to counsel.
Public Defender: An attorney appointed by the court in criminal trials to represent defendants who cannot afford an attorney themselves.
Indigent Defense: Legal representation provided by the state for those who cannot afford private defense.
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