What is the significance of Gideon v. Wainwright?

The significance of Gideon v. Wainwright lies in its establishment of the right to counsel for defendants in criminal cases. The Supreme Court held that the Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution, which guarantees the right to counsel, is applicable to state courts through the Fourteenth Amendment's Due Process Clause. This landmark decision ensures that individuals who cannot afford an attorney are provided one at the state's expense, thus reinforcing the principle of fairness in the judicial process and ensuring that the right to a fair trial is upheld for all individuals, regardless of their financial status. This case significantly expanded the rights of defendants and highlighted the importance of legal representation in the American justice system.