Legal Definitions - due process of law

Definition:Due process of law refers to the legal requirement that the government must respect all legal rights that are owed to a person. This means that the government must follow fair procedures and laws when taking away someone's life, liberty, or property.

Examples:

• A person accused of a crime has the right to a fair trial, including the right to an attorney, the right to present evidence, and the right to cross-examine witnesses.
• A person cannot be punished for a crime without first being found guilty in a court of law.
• A person cannot be deprived of their property without just compensation.

These examples illustrate how due process of law protects individuals from arbitrary or unfair treatment by the government. It ensures that everyone is treated fairly and that their legal rights are respected.