Analysis Of Gideon's Trumpet

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Based on a true story, “Gideon’s Trumpet” covers the events of Gideon vs. Wainwright and how it proved to be an important case for the United States legal system. ¬¬¬¬It shows that even after 200 years of changes and refinement, the United State’s legal system is far from perfect and is always improving. The movie provides a visual representation of the struggles between the haves and have-nots. The haves, also known as repeat players, are people who have superior access to resources, money, and superior legal experience. They are usually people who have been in multiple legal situations and know how to handle themselves in these legal situations. On the opposite end of the spectrum are the have-nots. The have-nots, also known as one shotters, …show more content…

The movie starts off with Gideon being charged with petty theft and going to court. Gideon is considered a have-not; he is extremely poor and barely literate. When he gets to court, he asks the judge to appoint him a lawyer because he cannot afford one. The judge denies this, saying that in Florida the only time the court can appoint council is if the defendant had committed a capitol offense. Because of this, Gideon is unable to provide a solid defense and is declared guilty and sentenced to five years in prison. Being a have-not, the judge’s decision to not appoint Gideon a lawyer wasn’t even …show more content…

After pleading his case to the Supreme Court, Gideon proved that his rights had been infringed upon and was granted the opportunity for a lawyer to defend him. Not only did Gideon have a lawyer in this third trial, but his defense was solid as a rock. With a proper defense Gideon proved that without a doubt he was innocent. His lawyer also made the main witness look guilty himself, something Gideon would not have been able to do on his own. Having legal representation proved to be a major asset for Gideon and the have-nots, and that having a lawyer can change the decision on a case. In this situation, the have-nots came out on top

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