In the United States Constitution, the first 10 amendments are known as the Bill of Rights, which are basically our fundamental freedoms as U.S. citizens. These freedoms remain valid and intact as a defendant in the criminal law system. In fact, the 14th Amendment specifically acknowledges how the law must abide by these rights when prosecuting a suspected criminal. Furthermore, it guarantees all citizens equal protection of the law, regardless of age, class, status, income, race, religion, or ethnicity. When it comes to being appointed a lawyer pro bono, your 6th amendment right will protect you if necessary. This is your right to an attorney. But the sixth amendment does not apply to everyone, nor any type of case.
Continue reading to learn what you need to know about your 6th amendment right after being arrested for a crime in Indiana.
6th Amendment Gives You the Right to Counsel
Not everyone is given the right to a free attorney. This right only applies to criminal cases because jail time is on the table, and our Forefathers wanted everyone to have a chance at a fair trial when the stakes are so high. But not only does the 6th Amendment provide you the right to an attorney in a criminal case, but it also bestows the right to a “speedy and public” trial, and a trial by an impartial jury.
This includes being informed of your charges and the evidence against you, and being permitted to be present when witnesses are testifying against you. It also allows you to call witnesses to your defense. Even after a defendant has been convicted in criminal court, the 6th amendment still gives them the right to an attorney for all subsequent sentencing hearings, motions, and appeals.
Sixth Amendment (1791)
“(…) the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed.”
Although the 6th amendment is generally applied in court during a criminal case, a defendant can also invoke their sixth amendment right if they are officially in custody, and have had their Miranda right’s read to them by police. Such questioning is known as a custodial interrogation, which basically means the person being interrogated is officially under arrest and in police custody. If you are wondering which U.S. amendments protect criminals’ rights, speak with an experienced defense lawyer for current information you can trust.
Where to Get Trusted Indianapolis Criminal Defense and Legal Advice
Call the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation with aggressive Indiana criminal defense lawyer who will stop at nothing to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. With decades of hands-on experience, you can trust Attorney David E. Lewis to build you a strong and impactful defense against your Indiana criminal charges. Trust our legal professionals to help place you in the best position possible following an arrest, charge, or conviction. Contact us to schedule your online, over-the-phone, or in-office appointment, today.
