The cover of Gideon's Trumpet

Gideon's Trumpet

How did a poor prisoner's pencilled petition push the Supreme Court to reconsider whether the state must give a lawyer to those who cannot pay?

At a glance

Author
Anthony Lewis

Why read it

  • You will see why a fair trial can depend on having a lawyer, since even the most innocent man may be unable to defend himself
  • You will learn how a case travels through the Supreme Court, from a pauper's petition to argument and decision
  • You will understand why a landmark ruling is only a beginning, and why the response must come from society

Who it is for

  • A law student curious how a landmark case reaches the Supreme Court
  • A citizen who wonders what happens if you cannot afford a lawyer
  • A public defender or legal aid volunteer serving poor clients

Contents

  1. Epilogue
  2. Suggested Readings
  3. The Supreme Court
  4. By and About the Justices
  5. Judicial Power
  6. The Right to Counsel
  7. Table of Cases

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