Which amendment protects against self-incrimination?

The Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution specifically protects individuals from self-incrimination. This means that a person cannot be compelled to testify against themselves in a criminal case. The phrase "nor shall any person be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself" is a critical part of the amendment, underscoring the principle that individuals should not be forced to provide evidence that could lead to their own conviction.

This protection is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the legal system and ensuring that individuals have the right to remain silent when they believe that speaking could expose them to criminal liability. The right against self-incrimination is often invoked during legal proceedings and is a fundamental aspect of the protections afforded to defendants in criminal justice.

Understanding this amendment is essential, as it plays a significant role in preserving the rights of individuals in legal contexts and ensuring a fair trial, which is a core value of the American justice system.