Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution addresses the rights of the accused?

The Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution addresses the rights of the accused in several significant ways. It includes critical protections such as the right against self-incrimination, ensuring that individuals cannot be compelled to testify against themselves during a criminal case. Additionally, the amendment guarantees the right to due process, which is a fundamental legal principle that ensures fair treatment through the normal judicial system.

The Fifth Amendment also provides protections against double jeopardy, meaning that a person cannot be tried twice for the same crime after a verdict has been reached. This emphasizes the principle of legal finality and the protection of individuals from repeated prosecutions for the same offense. Collectively, these rights are essential for safeguarding the freedoms and legal protections of individuals accused of crimes, thereby maintaining the integrity of the judicial system.

In contrast, the other amendments referenced do not primarily focus on the rights of the accused. The First Amendment deals with freedoms concerning religion, expression, assembly, and the right to petition the government. The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, while the Eighth Amendment addresses issues related to excessive bail, fines, and cruel and unusual punishments.