What rights are guaranteed by the due process clause?

The due process clause, found in the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, ensures that individuals receive fair treatment under the law. This clause protects rights during legal proceedings, which include the right to counsel, the right to a speedy and public trial, and the right to be free from unlawfully obtained evidence.

The right to counsel guarantees that defendants have access to legal representation, which is crucial for ensuring that they can adequately defend themselves against charges. The right to a speedy and public trial aims to prevent prolonged incarceration without a trial and ensures transparency in judicial processes. The protection against the use of unlawfully obtained evidence, under the exclusionary rule, serves as a safeguard against violations of individual rights by law enforcement, maintaining the integrity of the judicial system.

Due process fundamentally serves to uphold the principles of justice and fairness in the legal system, making the rights outlined in this choice essential to the protection of individuals' legal rights and the integrity of judicial proceedings.