Amendment VI
Ratified: December 15, 1791
Summary
Guarantees the right to a fair and speedy public trial.
Full Text
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.
History and Context
Where the Fifth Amendment provides protections leading up to a trial, the Sixth Amendment guarantees the fairness of the trial itself. The framers were reacting against the secret, inquisitorial systems of Europe, like the infamous Star Chamber in England, where individuals could be imprisoned for years without a public trial, unaware of the charges against them, and unable to confront their accusers. This amendment is a blueprint for a transparent and just trial process, ensuring that justice is not only done, but is seen to be done.