Docudrama based on a book by Anthony Lewis. Originally produced in 1979; telecast on CBS, April 30, 1980, as a Hallmark Hall of Fame presentation. Henry Fonda as Clarence Earl Gideon, Jose Ferrer, John Houseman, Sam Jaffe, Dean Jagger, Fay Wray.
Summary:
Clarence Earl Gideon, a semi-literate drifter, is arrested for breaking into a pool room and for petty theft. When he asks the court to appoint a lawyer for his defense because he cannot afford one, his request is denied. Acting as his own lawyer, Gideon is convicted and sent to jail. While in prison, he begins a hand-written campaign directed to the U.S. Supreme Court, contending that every defendant is entitled to legal representation. The Court agrees to hear Gideon's case, and, in a landmark decision, rules in his favor.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.