Explain what "taking the Fifth" really means and why this is critical right in the U.S. justice system

What will be an ideal response?


• The Fifth Amendment to the Constitution states that no person "shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself.".
• Therefore, a defendant has the right not to testify at a trial if to do so would implicate him or her in the crime.
• Witnesses may also refuse to testify on this ground if it would reveal their own criminal wrongdoing and they may say "I take the Fifth.". In other words, she or he can refuse to testify on the ground that such testimony may be self-incriminating.

Criminal Justice

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A voiceprint transforms a visual graphic display into speech

Indicate whether the statement is true or false.

Criminal Justice

The burden placed on institutional corrections is compounded because of the significant number of inmates who have a dual diagnosis of both _________.

a. mental illness and substance abuse b. mental retardation and suicidal ideation c. mental illness and mental retardation d. substance abuse and suicidal ideation

Criminal Justice

Congressional incumbents and electoral challengers have come to rely increasingly on ________ interests to run for office.

Fill in the blank(s) with the appropriate word(s).

Criminal Justice

It is a __________ to use an electronic tracking device to track the movements or location of a person without consent

a. felony b. wobbler c. infraction d. misdemeanour

Criminal Justice