Rights Of Accused Persons in Criminal Cases
The purpose of the law and the government is to punish people who violate the rights of others. But before handing over the punishment to the perpetrators, the law and the government must make sure that no innocent person will be convicted of crimes they haven’t committed. This is where the rights of accused persons in criminal cases come in.
These rights also apply to people who are charged with criminal sexual conduct in Michigan. With that said, if you are wondering about your rights when someone claims that you committed criminal sexual conduct, read on.
The fundamental rights of the accused person
The 5th Amendment Rights
Under the 5th Amendment, you have the right to refuse to answer any questions or make any statements that might incriminate you.
This amendment also contains the Due Process Clause, which protects you from suffering from any kind of consequences without due process.
The 6th Amendment Rights
Under the 6th Amendment, the following rights must be exercised:
the right to trial by jury;
The right to trial in a timely manner;
the right to be informed of the nature and cause of all accusations against you;
the right to confront witnesses against you;
the right to have legal counsel available to you; and
the right to compel witnesses to testify on your behalf.
The 8th Amendment Rights
Under The 8th Amendment, you are protected from excessive bail or cruel and unusual punishment.
Hire A Lawyer To Protect Your Rights Further
To be able to protect your rights further and to make sure that all of the rights of an accused person is being exercised and given, hire a criminal defense lawyer immediately. If you are charged with criminal sexual conduct in Michigan or any related sex crime, hire a Michigan sex crime lawyer as soon as possible so your rights will be protected until the trial ends.
For further reading:
Fundamental Rights of the Accused
10 Basic Rights of Accused Persons in Criminal Proceedings
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