Bill of Rights: Amendments 6-10 Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts from Amendments 6 through 10 of the Bill of Rights, focusing on rights related to criminal proceedings, civil lawsuits, bail, fines, and federal government powers.

What does Amendment 6 guarantee regarding the speed of trials?

The government cannot keep someone in jail longer than a year without a trial.

What is an 'impartial jury' according to Amendment 6?

People accused of a serious crime are entitled to an unbiased jury.

What right does Amendment 6 guarantee concerning witnesses?

People accused of a crime may confront and cross-examine witnesses against them.

In civil lawsuits under Amendment 7, when is a jury required?

A jury will decide cases when the value at stake is more than $20 (now $75,000 in federal court).

What does Amendment 8 say about bail?

The government may not impose exceedingly high bail fees on people accused of crimes.

What restriction does Amendment 8 place on fines?

The government may not impose excessively high fines on people accused of crimes.

What principle does Amendment 8 establish regarding punishments?

The government may not impose cruel or unusual punishments; punishments must fit the crime.

What does Amendment 9 state about civil liberties?

People have all rights provided by the Constitution, as well as rights not listed by the Constitution.

What is the main provision of Amendment 10 concerning federal power?

Power not given to the federal government by the Constitution stays with the states and the people.

What are some powers designated to the federal government in Amendment 10?

The power to declare war, collect taxes, and regulate interstate business activities.

What right is protected under Amendment 6 regarding trials?

The right to a speedy trial.

Which amendment addresses the right to confront witnesses?

Amendment 6.

What happens if the value in a civil suit is less than $20 according to Amendment 7?

A jury is not required to decide the case.

According to Amendment 8, what must punishments be?

Fair and must fit the crime.

What does Amendment 9 imply about rights?

Individuals have rights that are not explicitly listed in the Constitution.