Annenberg Classroom - Timelines - Right to Assistance of Counsel

1791

… Sixth Amendment Is Ratified

1932

… The 'Scottsboro Boys' Case

1938

… Indigent Have Right To Counsel In Federal Cases

1942

… Attorney With Conflicts Cannot Give Effective Counsel

1954

… Denial Of Counsel Is Ruled Unconstitutional

1963

… Right To Counsel For Indigent Extended To States

1964

… Counsel Must Be Present At Questioning Before Suspect Charged
… Counsel Must Be At Questioning After Suspect Charged

1966

… 'You Have The Right To Remain Silent...'

1967

… Defense Attorney Required To Follow Through On Appeal
… Right to Counsel Applies At Pretrial Identification Lineup

1975

… Counsel Cannot Be Forced On A Defendant

1977

… Type Of Questioning That Triggers Right To Counsel Widened

1979

… Possibility Of Jail Not Enough To Trigger Right To Counsel

1980

… Rules Clarified On Identifying Lawyers' Conflicts Of Interest
… Right To Counsel Exists When Someone Other Than Police Gathers Evidence

1984

… Court Defines Test For Ineffective Counsel
… Standby Counsel Does Not Violate Self-Representation Right

1985

… Assistance Of Counsel On Appeal Must Also Be Effective
… Ineffective Counsel Standard Applies To Plea Bargains

1986

… No Police Questioning Can Occur After Attorney Is Requested

1993

… Defendant Must Be Mentally Competent To Waive Counsel Right

2000

… Court: No Self-Representation Right On Appeals
… No Absolute Requirement To Appeal Client's Conviction

2002

… Ineffective Strategy Does Not Mean Ineffective Counsel

2003

… Court Restates Right To Effective Counsel In Capital Cases

2009

… Limits Eased On Questioning Suspects