The Court’s ruling in Gideon v. Wainwright established several principles. First is that Defendants, regardless of their financial status, have a fundamental right to legal representation during criminal proceedings. State courts must adhere to the same “right to counsel” rule that federal courts follow. This ensures consistency and fairness across jurisdictions. By requiring appointed counsel, the Court protected defendants from the pitfalls of self-representation, which could jeopardize their freedom due to lack of legal knowledge. The importance of the Gideon decision lies in its protection of individual rights. The case ensured that defendants who cannot afford an attorney are still able to receive legal representation. Prior to the Gideon decision, many indigent defendants were forced to represent themselves in court, which often resulted in unfair trials and wrongful convictions. The Gideon decision has had a profound impact on the criminal justice system. It has helped to ensure that defendants are treated fairly and that their rights are protected throughout the criminal justice