Constitutional Protections For The Accused

America’s founders knew of the dangers of an unrestrained criminal justice system. For this reason, the American people enacted the Bill of Rights. Contained in the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights guarantees certain rights to all U.S. citizens. Many of these rights exist to protect those accused of crimes, to ensure that justice is done. These rights apply not just to federal crimes, but to those facing criminal charges in the states’ legal systems as well. These rights generally apply to regulate the procedures that the government must follow when investigating and prosecuting a crime.

Those accused of a crime in America have the following fundamental rights under the Constitution:

• The right to be free of unreasonable searches and seizures.
• The right to a trial by jury.
• The right to a speedy trial.
• The right to due process of the law.
• The privilege against self-incrimination and coerced confession.
• The right to have an attorney.
• The right to have an attorney provided to the accused in felony cases.
• The right to confront witnesses against you.
• The right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment.

Other significant rights of the accused are also included in the Bill of Rights. While many of these rights sound familiar and make for good drama in the movies, they have been refined over several hundred years and contain many subtleties. Foremost among the rights protected by the Constitution is the right to an attorney, and for good reason: without the assistance of an attorney, many other important rights will not receive adequate protection.

If you have been charged with a crime, you should consult with an attorney right away. An experienced Michigan criminal defense attorney will help protect all of the constitutional rights guaranteed to those accused of crimes. At Grabel & Associates, we will work to ensure that you receive a fair trial and that your rights are protected. Call us today for a free confidential consultation at (800) 342-7896.