What does the ruling in Strickland v. Washington aim to ensure for defendants?

The ruling in Strickland v. Washington focuses on the right of defendants to receive effective assistance of counsel during trials. This landmark decision established a two-pronged test for determining whether a criminal defendant's Sixth Amendment right to counsel was violated. The first prong assesses whether the attorney's performance was deficient, meaning the attorney fell below a standard of reasonable representation. The second prong examines whether this deficiency affected the outcome of the trial, meaning it must be shown that the attorney's performance had a significant impact on the verdict.

This ruling is significant because it protects the rights of defendants by ensuring that they are represented by competent attorneys, thereby safeguarding the integrity of the legal process. Effective legal counsel is crucial for a fair trial, as it allows defendants to present their case adequately, challenge evidence, and navigate complex legal proceedings.