Lesson 3: Rights of the Accused

Activity 3.1: What are My Rights?

Throughout much of the modern period in the West, justice has been represented by a blindfolded female carrying scales and sword. In theory, this image implies that justice is unbiased against those accused of a crime until found guilty by a court of law. However, in practice is justice really blind? How are individuals accused of crimes protected by the Constitution?

In the United States, individuals accused of a crime are protected by a series of amendments meant to protect their individual rights. The 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th and 14th Amendments--in theory--protect the rights of individuals accused of a crime. These rights have been substantially broadened by Supreme Court rulings over the past 50 years. Where some individuals believe this has greatly strengthened American civil liberties, critics argue that suspected criminals may now have too much protection. The debate continues. In this activity, you will learn about the Constitutional Amendments that protect the rights of the accused.

Benchmark 9.1.3.4.3:

Explain the scope and limits of rights of the accused under the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, and Eighth Amendments and changes created by legislative action and court interpretation.

Learning Targets:

I can...classify the rights of the accused according to the appropriate Constitutional Amendments.

I can...evaluate how the Supreme Court rulings have affected the rights of the accused.

Essential Question:

How have Supreme Court rulings affected the rights of the accused?

To complete Activity 3.1 please follow the steps below:

STEP 1

In this activity you will be viewing a video about the amendments that protect the rights of the accused. As you watch the video, you will need to classify the rights from each amendment on this chart. In addition to the rights enumerated in this lesson’s benchmark, you will also be examining the 7th and 14th amendments at a surface level. Following the completion of the chart, you will proceed to STEP 2. Click here to begin watching the video.

STEP 2

Based upon what your newly gained knowledge, respond to the following questions and tasks:

1. Which basic rights discussed in the video are needed to guarantee a presumption of innocence?
2. How does due process protect individuals from unjust laws and wrongful government actions?
3. Define probable cause.
4. Define bail.
5. Define habeas corpus.
6. Define double jeopardy.

STEP 3

Using the links contained on the chart, briefly describe the background of each selected landmark Supreme Court case, the decision of the Supreme Court, and the importance of the case to the rights of the accused. Please note, that this is by no means an exhaustive listing of all of the related and significant Supreme Court Cases.

STEP 4

On your chart, respond to this lesson’s essential question: How have Supreme Court rulings affected the rights of the accused?

STEP 5

Upload your work to the add submission box. Be sure to include your name on the document.
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