Argersinger v. Hamlin Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What were the facts of the Argersinger v. Hamlin case?

Petitioner was an indigent charged with carrying a concealed weapon, faced a judge-trial without representation, and was sentenced to a 90-day jail term.

What is the central issue in Argersinger v. Hamlin?

Whether the Sixth Amendment right of court-appointed counsel applies only to trials of non-petty offenses.

The Supreme Court held that the right to counsel applies to cases punishable by more than six months of imprisonment.

True

What was the result of the Argersinger v. Hamlin case?

<p>No, the Supreme Court held that the right to trial by jury applies only to trials where the potential punishment was imprisonment for six months or more.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Overview of Argersinger v. Hamlin

Case involves petitioner, an indigent accused of carrying a concealed weapon.
Offense is punishable by imprisonment up to six months and/or a $1,000 fine.
The trial was conducted without legal representation for the petitioner.
Petitioner was sentenced to 90 days in jail.

Legal Background

Florida Supreme Court previously ruled that the right to court-appointed counsel applies only to non-petty offenses with potential imprisonment over six months.
This interpretation affects how defendants in misdemeanor cases can access legal counsel.

Key Legal Issue

Central question: Does the Sixth Amendment guarantee the right to court-appointed counsel in trials for non-petty offenses?

Supreme Court Ruling

The U.S. Supreme Court rejected the Florida Court's narrow interpretation regarding the right to counsel.
Cited the Duncan case, asserting it limited trial by jury rights to offenses with potential punishment involving six months or longer imprisonment.
Emphasized the necessity of counsel for a fair trial, especially for misdemeanor and petty offenses that might lead to jail time.

Description

Explore key concepts and facts related to the landmark case Argersinger v. Hamlin. This quiz will help you understand the implications of the court's decision on the right to counsel in non-petty offenses. Test your knowledge on the defense rights in legal proceedings.