Constitutional Clauses

Establishment Clause

The 1st Amendment prohibits the government from imposing religious practices.

Clear and Present Danger

The 1st Amendment limits speech that endangers the nation or state.

Free Exercise Clause

The 1st Amendment allows citizens' religious practices.

Prior Restraint

The 1st Amendment allows the government to stop the press before publication.

Symbolic Speech

Actions that are viewed as equivalent to speech, protected under the 1st Amendment.

Slander

The act of damaging someone's reputation through spoken words under the 1st Amendment.

Libel

The act of damaging someone's reputation through written words under the 1st Amendment.

Probable Cause

Circumstances under the 4th Amendment that justify searches without a warrant.

Exclusionary Rule

Under the 4th Amendment, certain types of evidence cannot be used in court.

Due Process Clause (5th Amendment)

Ensures fair procedures if the government deprives an individual of life, liberty, or property.

Self-Incrimination

Under the 5th Amendment, an individual cannot be compelled to provide personal evidence of guilt.

Indictment

The formal process of being accused of a crime under the 5th Amendment.

Double Jeopardy

Being tried multiple times for the same offense, prohibited by the 5th Amendment.

Right to Counsel

The 6th Amendment guarantees access to licensed legal assistance.

Reserved Powers

Powers that are retained by the states as outlined in the 10th Amendment.

Selective Incorporation

The 14th Amendment prohibits states from enacting laws that violate citizens' guaranteed rights.

Due Process Clause (14th Amendment)

Ensures fair procedures if the government deprives an individual of life, liberty, or property.

Equal Protection Clause

Mandates that specific groups cannot be discriminated against under the 14th Amendment.

Progressive Tax

A tax structure where tax rates are based on different levels of income, established under the 16th Amendment.