Constitutional Rights in Criminal Cases

Listed below are the 15 primary federal constitutional rights guaranteed to criminal defendants in the United States to promote fair trials.

1. The right to due process of law
2. The right to equal protection under the law
3. The right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure
4. The right against self-incrimination or being forced to testify against oneself
5. The right against double jeopardy or being tried more than once for the same offense
6. The right to legal counsel
7. The right to a speedy, public trial
8. The right to an impartial jury trial
9. The right to confront witnesses against you
10. The right to call supporting witnesses
11. The right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment
12. The prohibition against ex post facto laws or laws that retroactively criminalize certain acts or increase criminal sanctions
13. The right to be free from excessive fines or excessive bail
14. The right to clear notice of criminal charges
15. The right to a grand jury in federal felony proceedings

The protection of these rights is critical to every criminal case. However, these are complex legal issues, defined by hundreds of years of case law. Further, you may find that state constitutions enhance these protections.

If you feel that your rights have been violated contact us today and let's talk it over - (208) 344-0128