Legal Definitions - civil right

Definition:Civil rights are the individual rights of personal liberty that are guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, the 13th, 14th, 15th, and 19th Amendments, and legislation such as the Voting Rights Act. These rights include the right to vote, the right of due process, and the right of equal protection under the law.

Examples: A person's civil rights may be violated if they are denied the right to vote because of their race, gender, or age. Another example is if a person is not given a fair trial and is denied due process. Civil rights also protect individuals from discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, and education.

Explanation: Civil rights are important because they ensure that every individual is treated fairly and equally under the law. The examples illustrate how civil rights protect individuals from discrimination and ensure that they have access to important rights such as voting and due process. Without civil rights, certain groups may be unfairly targeted and denied basic rights and freedoms.