Civic Literacy Practice Test 2026 - Free Civic Literacy Questions and Study Guide

The case of Gideon v. Wainwright (1963) was pivotal in establishing the right to counsel for defendants in criminal cases. The Supreme Court ruled that the Sixth Amendment, which guarantees the right to counsel, is applicable to state courts through the Fourteenth Amendment's Due Process Clause. This decision stemmed from the case of Clarence Earl Gideon, who was charged with a felony but could not afford an attorney and was denied one by the state. The Court's ruling ensured that every person, regardless of their financial situation, has the right to legal representation in criminal trials. This landmark decision significantly reinforced the principle of fair trial rights and guaranteed that defendants have access to legal assistance, which is crucial for upholding justice and ensuring that trials are conducted fairly.