In Re Gault (1966)
Details: Gerald Francis Gault, a fifteen year old who was previously on probation, was taken into custody for making an obscene phone call. The police did not notify Gault’s parents when he was arrested. Gault was sent to the State Industrial School until he was 21.
Decision/Justification: 8 votes for In re Gault, 1 vote against. The court decided that it was unreasonable under the 14th amendment because of the inadequate notice of charges and for not notifying the parents and child of the juvenile’s charges.
Lasting effect (precedent/significance): The Supreme Court ruled that since Gault was denied an attorney and was not notified of the charges against him, this was a violation of the 14th amendment. Also, this case provides council for minors.
Important/relevant details: Justice Potter Stewart was the lone dissenter.
Decision/Justification: 8 votes for In re Gault, 1 vote against. The court decided that it was unreasonable under the 14th amendment because of the inadequate notice of charges and for not notifying the parents and child of the juvenile’s charges.
Lasting effect (precedent/significance): The Supreme Court ruled that since Gault was denied an attorney and was not notified of the charges against him, this was a violation of the 14th amendment. Also, this case provides council for minors.
Important/relevant details: Justice Potter Stewart was the lone dissenter.