Debate Whether legal representation is required in criminal cases?

Question

I want to know is legal representation required or do they just like it? what is legal representation lol is it lawyer?

Answer 1

For crimes which could deny you of your liberty you are entitled to a lawyer. If you can't afford one one will be appointed. And yes it will be a lawyer!

IAlso, the Sixth Amendment to the Unites States Constitution guarantees anyone accused of a crime for which they can be imprisoned the right to an attorney. This right has been repeatedly confirmed in a series of Supreme Court cases including the most famous, Gideon v. Wainwright.

US Constitution:

Amendment 6 - Right to Speedy Trial, Confrontation of Witnesses. Ratified 12/15/1791.

In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the Assistance of Counsel for his defence."

Answer 2

No it's not required but only a fool will represent himself.

Answer 3

In the u.s., in any criminal case which results in incarceration, the defendant is constitutionaly entitled to be represented by a licensed and competent lawyer.  That was the ruling of the u.s. supreme court in Gideon v. Wainwright.  No person is required to be represented and anyone may choose to represent themselves.  

Answer 4

Legal representation must be provided if a defendent is too poor to pay a lawyer.  That was the Gideon v. Wainwright supreme court decision.

However, a person may defend themselves and waive their right to an attorney.

As a practical matter poor criminals end up with public defenders of dubious competence.