The Right to Counsel

The right to counsel means that if you are accused of a crime and face criminal charges, you have the legal right to be represented by a lawyer. If you cannot afford one, the government must provide a public defender or other legal assistance. This ensures you have a fair chance to defend yourself in court. The right to counsel is protected by the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, emphasizing that effective legal representation is essential for justice and fairness in criminal proceedings.