discussion 2

A Simple Summary

· The simplest explanation can be provided by a summary of the amendment's purpose. The Sixth Amendment exists to make sure that people who are accused of crimes have the chance to prove that they are innocent. It prevents abuses of power and keeps the country fair.

Speedy and Public Trial

· The first part states that: "In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial." A speedy trial does not mean the trial must end quickly, but that it must begin quickly. This way, people can't be left in jail waiting for trial even though they may be innocent. The public part means that the public must be able to follow the trial to make sure that it is being done fairly.

The Nature of the Jury and Trial Location

· The Sixth Amendment says the person accused of a crime must have an "impartial jury" to decide her guilt or innocence, which means that the people on the jury cannot already have feelings for or against the accused person. Making the trial "in the state or district" where the crime was committed means that the trial cannot be held in an area far away from the crime. It would be unfair if the jury assumed the defendant was guilty simply because he lived in another place and was different from them.

Keeping the Accused Aware

· The next section of the Sixth Amendment says the person accused of a crime must be "informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him." The defendant has to know what he is accused of and who is saying what about him. A person who does not know what is going on will not be able to properly defend himself.

Right to a Lawyer

· The last part explains that, just as the prosecution can select witnesses to help its case, the defendant can do the same. This keeps the trial even. The last part is among the most famous parts of the amendment. The right to have "assistance of counsel" gives the accused the right to a lawyer to help prove that she is not guilty. A lawyer will understand the situation better than most people and can considerably increase the defendant's odds of explaining her viewpoint.