Handout B: Criminal and Civil Procedure Protections

Directions: Using a copy of the Bill of Rights, complete the chart of due process protections for accused persons in the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth Amendments. Several are completed for you.

Fourth Amendment	Interpretation
1. “the right of the people to be secure … against unreasonable searches and seizures, Shall not be violated…”	People and their homes, possessions, etc., cannot be searched or taken without reason
2.	2.
3.	3.

 

Fifth Amendment	Interpretation
1. “No person shall be held to answer for a capital … crime unless on a presentment or indictment of by a Grand Jury”	1. People suspected of very serious crimes must be indicted [formally accused] by a Grand Jury.
2. “nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life and limb…	2.
3.	3.
4.	4.

 

Sixth Amendment	Interpretation
1. “the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury.”	1.
2. “[the accused shall] be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation.”	2. People must be told what crime they are accused of committing.
3.	3.
4.	4.
5.	5.

 

Seventh Amendment	Interpretation
1. “where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved”	1. People have a right to a jury trial in common law cases [law suits] concerning a value of more than twenty dollars.
2.	2.

 

Eighth Amendment	Interpretation
1. Excessive bail shall not be imposed.	1. The government cannot impose excessive bail.