What does "due process" ensure?

"Due process" is a fundamental principle in the legal system that ensures individuals are treated fairly and justly throughout the judicial process. It encompasses a variety of rights designed to maintain fairness in legal proceedings, including the right to be heard, the right to present evidence, and the right to a fair trial. This principle is grounded in the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibit the government from unfairly or arbitrarily depriving individuals of their life, liberty, or property.

While other options highlight important legal rights—such as the right to an attorney, the right to a speedy trial, and protection from double jeopardy—they are specific components that fall under the broader umbrella of due process. The essence of due process reflects a commitment to fairness and justice in the administration of the law, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to defend themselves and receive impartial treatment within the judiciary.