Constitutional Rights

Freedom of Expression and Religion

The First Amendment guarantees citizens the right to freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition. These are known collectively as freedom of expression.
The principle of separation of church and state is derived from the First Amendment, where the government is prohibited from establishing a religion or interfering in the free exercise of religion.

The Second Amendment preserves the right of individuals to keep and bear arms, though this has been a contentious issue due to varying interpretations.
The Third Amendment prevents the government from forcing homeowners to allow soldiers to use their homes during peacetime without their consent. This Amendment is rarely invoked in modern law.

The Fourth Amendment protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures. This means law enforcement must obtain a warrant based on probable cause.
The Fifth Amendment maintains that a person can’t be subjected to double jeopardy, be compelled to incriminate themselves, or be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law.
The Sixth Amendment gives the accused certain trial rights such as the right to a speedy trial, the right to be informed of the charges, the right to confront witnesses, and the right to counsel.
Lastly, the Eighth Amendment bans cruel and unusual punishment and excessive fines.

The Miranda rights safeguard a suspect’s Fifth Amendment rights, wherein they must be informed that they have the right to remain silent and that anything said can be used against them in a court of law.

The Fourteenth Amendment asserts the principle of equal protection under the law, ensuring all citizens have equal rights irrespective of race, religion, or gender.
The Fifteenth, Nineteenth, Twenty-fourth, and Twenty-sixth Amendments all work to prohibit restrictions on the right to vote based on race, sex, failure to pay any tax, and age for citizens eighteen years or older respectively.

The Ninth Amendment states that the Constitution’s enumeration of certain rights should not be interpreted to deny or disparage other rights retained by the people.
The Tenth Amendment limits the power of the federal government, reserving powers not delegated to it to the states or the people.