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13.4: Bill of Rights

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    48460
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    Bill of Rights

    The Bill of Rights are the first 10 Amendments to the Constitution. These Amendments were made to protect the legal rights of American citizens from being abused by criminal justice and other authorities in power. It is important for all American citizens to understand their constitutional rights. As it relates to criminal law, there are four main Amendments that are applicable.

    Fourth Amendment

    The Fourth Amendment focuses on citizens’ rights against unreasonable search and seizure. Typically, terminal justice officials must have a valid search warrant issued, and in order to obtain a search warrant, they must demonstrate probable cause. The warrant should state specifically the place to be searched and the items being searched for. Of course, there are exceptions such as when one is being placed under arrest and needs to be searched for weapons and contraband, or in the field when contraband is clearly present, or when one consent to a search. If consent is given, law enforcement can look for any violation in any place that was consenting to such as throughout the entire home or your entire automobile. Every citizen has the right to insist that officers obtain a search warrant even if they are not guilty of any wrongdoing. Right to insist that officers obtain a search warrant even if they are not guilty of any wrongdoing.

    Fifth Amendment

    The Fifth Amendment addresses a citizen’s right against self-incrimination. According to the Constitution law enforcement, officers cannot make a subject talk by using torture and they must be informed of their right to remain silent.

    Sixth Amendment

    As discussed in earlier chapters, it is the Sixth Amendment that goes over every citizen’s right to a fair trial as well as what the aspects of fairness are such as being speedy, public, have representation, the ability to confront witnesses, and have a jury.

    Eighth Amendment

    The Eighth Amendment mentions that, if bail is granted, it should not be excessive, and it is also the amendment that states that there should be no cruel and unusual punishments.


    This page titled 13.4: Bill of Rights is shared under a not declared license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Dr. Wendelin M. Hume & Sherina M. Hume.

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