What is the right to a fair trial?
The right to a fair trial is a cornerstone of human rights law in California. This important legal privilege gives people the right to be heard in a court of law and to be judged fairly, without a presumption of guilt. The right to a fair trial is enshrined in the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution, which states that “No State shall… deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.” This amendment ensures that everyone has access to the same legal representation and is given the same consideration when facing a jury or a judge. In California, all accused individuals must be given adequate time to prepare a defense, the right to have a lawyer present (if they choose), the right to confront their accuser, the right to remain silent, and the right to challenge evidence presented by the prosecution. In addition to these rights, defendants also have the right to a speedy trial in California. This means that the case must be heard within a reasonable amount of time after the accused is arrested – typically within 60 days. The right to a fair trial is a key right that every resident of California is entitled to. It provides a sense of security and allows all people to be treated equally before the law.
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