Bill of Rights

Brief description of protections of the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution. From A&W AP US Gov textbook.

First Amendment

Restricts the lawmaking powers of Congress in the areas of religion, speech, the press, assembly, and petitioning the government

Second Amendment

The right to keep and bear arms

Third Amendment

No forced quartering of troops in homes

Fourth Amendment

Protects against unreasonable search and seizure and establishes the right to have warrants issued before an arrest or search

Fifth Amendment

Right to a grand jury indictment in criminal cases, protection against double jeopardy and self-incrimination, the right to due process of law, and the right to just compensation when private property is taken for public use

Sixth Amendment

Protections during criminal prosecutions for a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury, the right to confront witnesses, the right to compel favorable witnesses to testify in one’s defense, and the right to the assistance of defense counsel

Seventh Amendment

Right to a trial by jury in certain civil suits

Eighth Amendment

Protections against excessive bail, excessive fines, and cruel and unusual punishment

Ninth Amendment

Protection of rights not listed in the Constitution

Tenth Amendment

Powers not delegated to the federal government, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states or to the people