What legal right did the Supreme Court recognize in Gideon v. Wainwright relating to criminal proceedings?

In Gideon v. Wainwright, the Supreme Court recognized the fundamental right to an attorney for defendants in criminal cases. This landmark decision ruled that the Sixth Amendment, which guarantees the right to counsel, is applicable to state courts through the Fourteenth Amendment's Due Process Clause. The case arose when Clarence Earl Gideon was charged with a felony in Florida and could not afford an attorney. He requested that the court appoint one for him, but his request was denied based on the state law at that time, which only provided for court-appointed counsel in capital cases.

The Supreme Court's ruling established that the right to counsel is essential for a fair trial, as legal representation is crucial for defendants to effectively navigate the complexities of the legal system. This decision ensured that even those who cannot afford an attorney would have access to one, reinforcing the principle of justice for all, regardless of economic status. This foundational ruling has had a significant impact on the rights of defendants in the American legal system.