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Simple English definitions for legal terms
Privilege against self-incrimination
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A quick definition of Privilege against self-incrimination:
Privilege against self-incrimination: This means that if someone is asked a question that could make them look guilty of a crime, they don't have to answer. It's like when you're playing a game and someone asks you if you cheated, you don't have to answer if you don't want to. This is a rule in the Constitution that helps protect people from being forced to say things that could get them in trouble.
A more thorough explanation:
The privilege against self-incrimination is a right that is protected by the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution. This privilege allows a person to refuse to answer questions or provide evidence that could be used against them in a criminal case.
For example, if a person is arrested for a crime, they have the right to remain silent and not answer any questions that could incriminate them. They can also refuse to provide any evidence, such as DNA samples or fingerprints, that could be used against them in court.
This privilege is important because it helps to protect individuals from being forced to confess to crimes they did not commit or from being unfairly prosecuted. It also helps to ensure that the criminal justice system operates fairly and justly.