The Rights of Every Individual Charged with a Crime

Right to an Attorney

All criminal defendants have the right to an attorney throughout legal proceedings. The court will appoint an attorney for the defendant at no charge if they cannot afford to hire one.

Right to a Jury Trial

All criminal defendants have the right to a speedy, public jury trial. At the trial, the defendant is presumed innocent, and cannot be convicted unless all impartial jurors are convinced of the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Right to Confront Witnesses

All criminal defendants have the right to confront and cross-examine all witnesses testifying against them.

Right Against Self-Incrimination

All criminal defendants have the right to remain silent and not incriminate themselves, and the right to testify on their own behalf.

Right to Produce Evidence

All criminal defendants have the right to present evidence and to have the court issue a subpoena to bring into court all witnesses and evidence favorable to them, at no cost to them.