Gideons Trumpet Movie questions

What was Clarence Gideon originally charged with?

Breaking and entering

Why did Gideon represent himself at trial?

He could not afford one and the court denied appointment

Which Supreme Court precedent did the trial judge rely on to deny Gideon a lawyer?

Betts v. Brady

Which constitutional amendment did Gideon's appeal primarily rely on?

Sixth Amendment

Where did Gideon submit his appeal to the Supreme Court?

In county jail

Why did the Supreme Court agree to hear Gideon's case?

The constitutional issue affected many defendants

Who was appointed to represent Gideon before the Supreme Court?

Abe Fortas

What did Florida argue regarding the right to counsel?

Be optional for states

In which cases did the Supreme Court require states to provide lawyers?

Felony criminal cases

What was the Supreme Court vote in Gideon v. Wainwright?

9-0

Which case was overturned by Gideon v. Wainwright?

Betts v. Brady

What is the legal principle that applied the Sixth Amendment to the states?

Selective incorporation

What happened to Gideon after the Supreme Court ruling?

Received a new trial

What was the outcome of Gideon's retrial with legal counsel?

Acquitted

What does Gideon's handwritten appeal demonstrate?

Access to the courts

What does the movie's title refer to?

A biblical symbol of a small voice creating great change

What problem does Gideon's original trial illustrate?

Unequal access to justice

How many inmates did the Florida prison system estimate had been tried without counsel?

About 4,000

Which constitutional principle is MOST strengthened by the Court's ruling?

Due process of law

What is the overall significance of Gideon's case?

Expanded civil liberties nationwide

What crime was Clarence Gideon accused of?

Breaking and entering

How did Gideon request a lawyer, and how did the trial judge respond?

He verbally asked and was denied because it is only allowed in capital cases

What does Gideon's case suggest about the Supreme Court's case selection?

The court takes cases with national constitutional importance.

How does Gideon's case raise constitutional questions beyond his individual situation?

It impacts fairness and due process for all criminal defendants.

What argument does Gideon's attorney make regarding the right to counsel?

A fair trial is impossible without legal counsel.

How does the state of Florida defend its position during oral arguments?

That states should decide when lawyers are required.

What is the Supreme Court's ruling in Gideon v. Wainwright?

9-0 unanimous for Gideon

How does incorporation through the 14th Amendment factor into the ruling?

The 6th amendment is incorporated through the 14th amendment.

What changes in Gideon's retrial once he has legal representation?

Gideon is acquitted, showing the impact of legal representation.

Why is Gideon v. Wainwright considered a landmark Supreme Court case?

It appoints a lawyer for all those who can't afford one.

How does this case demonstrate the Supreme Court's role in protecting individual rights from state governments?

By using selective incorporation and judicial review.

In what way did the Court's decision expand federal power?

By making the 6th amendment a requirement applicable in court.

What might the criminal justice system look like today if Gideon had lost his case?

Some people may not have a lawyer and have to represent themselves.

How does Gideon's story illustrate the balance between individual rights and government authority?

If you want something badly enough, you can work hard to get it.