Legal Definitions - Privilege against self-incrimination

The privilege against self-incrimination is a right that is protected by the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution. This privilege allows a person to refuse to answer questions or provide evidence that could be used against them in a criminal case.

For example, if a person is arrested for a crime, they have the right to remain silent and not answer any questions that could incriminate them. They can also refuse to provide any evidence, such as DNA samples or fingerprints, that could be used against them in court.

This privilege is important because it helps to protect individuals from being forced to confess to crimes they did not commit or from being unfairly prosecuted. It also helps to ensure that the criminal justice system operates fairly and justly.