In criminal law, what does due process ensure?

Due process is a fundamental principle in criminal law that guarantees fair legal processes to individuals, particularly when their rights are at stake. It is enshrined in the Constitution and ensures that individuals are treated with fairness and justice throughout legal proceedings. This encompasses the right to be heard, the right to an impartial jury, the right to legal representation, and the opportunity to contest evidence and present a defense.

The focus of due process is on the rights of the individual within the legal system, ensuring that laws are applied equally and that legal proceedings follow established rules, protecting citizens from arbitrary or unfair treatment by the state. This principle upholds the integrity of the judicial system and reinforces public confidence in the rule of law.