Supreme Court of the United States

The Court agrees to hear Gideon's case and appoints a lawyer to represent him. In a unanimous decision, the Court ruled that in state felony criminal cases, a person who cannot afford an attorney must be provided one. Thus, Betts v. Brady is overturned.

Gideon v. Wainwright (1963)

Note: Just before the Supreme Court made its decision, Wainwright replaced Cochran as Director of the Division of Corrections.

Supreme Court of the State of Florida

Claiming the circuit court's refusal to appoint counsel for him constitutes a denial of his rights, Gideon applies to the state supreme court for a writ of habeas corpus (an order asking that he be freed because he was illegally imprisoned). The court denies the request.

Gideon v. Cochran (1961)

Circuit Court of the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit of Florida

Gideon, a poor man living in Florida, is arrested and charged with breaking and entering. He cannot afford a lawyer and the judge refuses to appoint one, ruling the court will only supply lawyers in capital cases. Gideon is convicted and sentenced to jail.

State v. Gideon (1961)