Sixth Amendment

Right to Speedy Trial by Jury, Witnesses, Counsel

Passed by Congress September 25, 1789. Ratified December 15, 1791. The first 10 amendments form the Bill of Rights

Text of the Amendment

In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the Assistance of Counsel for his defence.

Interpretations & Debate

Read scholarly interpretations of the Sixth Amendment from the National Constitution Center, where constitutional scholars across the political spectrum debate its meaning and application.

Source

Adapted from the National Constitution Center, which provides the canonical text and scholarly interpretations of the Sixth Amendment.