Amendment 6 - United States Constitution Interactive

What does it Say?

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.

What does it Mean?

Amendment VI guarantees those accused of crimes, a prompt, public trail by a fair jury. Furthermore, individuals charged with crimes must be informed of charges against them and must be able to meet witnesses face to face. In addition, those charged must be able to cross-examine their accusers and are guaranteed an attorney to defend them. Attorneys are often appointed when an accused person cannot afford to pay for an attorney on their own.