RIGHTS The right to have a speedy, impartial, and public trial.

SCOPE All persons shall have the right to a speedy disposition of their cases before all judicial, quasi-judicial, or administrative bodies. (Sec. 16)

LIMITATIONS

The right to due process of law.

No person shall be held to answer for a criminal offense without due process of law.

The right to bail and against excessive bail.

Be bailable by sufficient sureties, or be released on recognizance as may be provided by law.

All persons except those charged with offenses punishable by reclusion perpetua when evidence of guilt is strong.

The right to presumption of innocence.

In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall be presumed until the contrary is proved beyond reasonable doubt.

The right to be heard by himself and counsel.

If the person cannot afford the services of a counsel, he must be provided with one.

The right to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation against him.

Any person under investigation for the commission of an offense shall have the right to be informed of his right to remain silent and to have competent and independent counsel preferably of his

If the person cannot afford the services of a counsel, he must be provided with one. Cannot be waived except in writing and in the presence of a counsel.

own choice. The right to meet the witnesses face to face and to have compulsory process to secure the attendance of witnesses and the production of evidence in his behalf. The right against selfincrimination. However, after arraignment, trial may proceed notwithstanding the absence of the accused provided that he has been duly notified and his failure to appear is unjustifiable. Any confession or admission obtained in violation of this shall be inadmissible in evidence against him. (Sec 12[3]) The right against the use of torture, force, violence, threat, intimidation, or any other means which vitiates the free will. Any means of act, which vitiates the free will, shall not be used against him. Secret detention places, solitary, incommunicado, or other similar forms of detention are prohibited. The right against excessive fines Only reasonable fines are allowed. Neither shall death penalty be imposed, unless, for compelling reasons involving heinous crimes, the Congress hereafter provides for it. Any death penalty already imposed shall be reduced to reclusion perpetua. The right against double jeopardy. If an act is punishable by law and an ordinance, conviction or acquittal under either shall constitute Any confession or admission obtained in violation of this shall be inadmissible in evidence against him. (Sec 12[3])

a bar to another prosecution for the same act. The right to free access to the courts and adequate legal assistance. Shall not be denied to any person by reason of poverty. If the person cannot afford the services of a counsel, he must be provided with one.

Lady Arielle M. Bernabe 4AD8