Faretta v. California

A plain-English summary from Criminal Defense Resources™, a free resource for pro per/pro se defendants and their families.

General educational information, not legal advice. Not a law firm. This page describes what a court decided in general terms. It does not tell you what to do in any case.

Court: U.S. Supreme Court
Decided: June 30, 1975
Citation: 422 U.S. 806 (1975)
Topics: Self-Representation & Right to Counsel (Faretta)

What did the court decide?

The U.S. Supreme Court held that the Sixth Amendment gives a person charged with a crime the right to represent himself or herself. A state cannot force a lawyer on a defendant who knowingly and intelligently chooses to go without one.

Why does it matter?

This is the foundation for every pro per/pro se defendant. It is the reason judges hold a "Faretta hearing" or ask a series of questions to make sure the person understands the risks before giving up a lawyer.

Where can I read the full opinion?

Read the full opinion on Cornell Law School LII →

Always read the full opinion and check whether later cases have limited or changed it. A summary can leave out important details.

Related rulings

McCoy v. Louisiana (U.S. Supreme Court, 2018)
Indiana v. Edwards (U.S. Supreme Court, 2008)
United States v. Erskine (9th Circuit, 2004)
Martinez v. Court of Appeal of California, Fourth Appellate District (U.S. Supreme Court, 2000)

General educational information, not legal advice. Not a law firm.