Bill of Rights - First 10 Amendments of the Constitution

Second Amendment

Individual states can maintain a National Guard. Private citizens can bear arms.

Sixth Amendment

Jury must be impartial. Trial must be speedy. Accused must be informed of ALL charges against him/her. Accused must be allowed a lawyer Witness can help accused as well. Accused must be allowed to question prosecution witness.

Ninth Amendment

People have rights not listed in the Constitution. Has been used in conjunction with other amendments to protect people's rights.

Tenth Amendment

Powers not given to federal government belong to the states

First Amendment

Protects freedom of: - Speech/expression - Religion - Press - Assembly - Petition

Fourth Amendment

Search and seizure of personal property is only allowed if a judge has issued a warrant, which will only be issued in case of a probable cause. Exceptions: when an object is in plain sight, when someone consents to be searched, or when a suspect is in hot pursuit.

Eighth Amendment

The court cannot set unreasonably high bail. Cruel and unusual punishment such as mental and physical abuse is not allowed.

Bill of Rights

The first 10 Amendments to the Constitution that protect the rights of the people and limit the powers of the government. The original purpose of the Bill of Rights was to protect the rights of the people from the federal government. The Bill of Rights was ratified all at the same time (December 15, 1791).

Fifth Amendment

The government must obtain an indictment from the grand jury to prosecute anyone for crimes that can be punished by death, prison, or a loss of rights. Double jeopardy is forbidden. A person cannot be forced to testify against themselves. Everyone is entitled to due process of law. Private property cannot be seized by the government for public use unless fair price is paid for it.

Third Amendment

The government's ability to use private homes to quarter soldiers is limited.

Seventh Amendment

The right to a federal jury trial is guaranteed in lawsuits with over $20 at stake. An appeals court can only change a ruling if a legal error has been made.