Legal Definitions - plead the Fifth

Definition: Plead the Fifth is a phrase used to describe the act of invoking the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution, which protects individuals from self-incrimination.

When someone pleads the Fifth, they are refusing to answer a question or provide information that could incriminate themselves in a criminal case. This right is often used by witnesses in court or individuals who are being questioned by law enforcement.

Example 1: During a trial, a witness is asked if they were present at the scene of a crime. The witness chooses to plead the Fifth and refuses to answer the question.

Example 2: A suspect is being questioned by the police about their involvement in a robbery. The suspect chooses to plead the Fifth and does not answer any questions.

Both examples illustrate the act of pleading the Fifth. In both situations, the individual is choosing to exercise their right to remain silent and not provide any information that could be used against them in a criminal case.