Faretta v. California: The Case That Says You May Speak for Yourself

In 1975 the Supreme Court held that a criminal defendant has a constitutional right to refuse a lawyer and conduct his own defense. Here is what the decision says, and what it does not.

Sandra JenkinsKasecraft Journalist

Sunday, October 4, 2026 · 3 min read

Anthony Faretta was charged with grand theft in Los Angeles. Before trial he asked to represent himself. The trial judge first allowed it, then reversed course after questioning Faretta about the hearsay rule and jury selection, and appointed a public defender. Faretta was convicted.…