![]() These limitations redefined the relationship between the king and the barons, and granted a body of rights and protections to the nobles that would, over time, become deeply rooted in English common law. In 1215, King John was forced to accept limitations to his prerogatives in the Magna Carta. However, the concept of due process of law, and many of the individual rights that are associated with it, evolved from English law. Most persons in the United States would consider due process quintessentially American. Rather, it is a blend of rights, customs, procedures, and legal traditions that have evolved over the centuries alongside our modern understanding of the requirements of the concept of “justice.” Due process is not a particular right in and of itself. In essence, it means that government must treat its citizens fairly by following laws and established procedures in everything it does. ![]() ![]() The government must follow duly-enacted laws when it seeks to restrict or deny fundamental rights, including a person’s rights to life, liberty or property. Thankfully, America is guided by the principle of due process of law. Would treatment such as that described above be fair? While the vast majority of Americans are generally law-abiding citizens, most of us will eventually run afoul of the law, perhaps for something as minor as a traffic infraction. If a trial is offered, a lone judge, in secret, determines your guilt and then authorizes cruel punishment.You may be jailed indefinitely, never having been told what you were accused of, or given a chance to defend yourself.Authorities may use any means necessary to force information from you if they suspect you of a crime.Your home, property, and body can be searched for any reason at any time.Imagine for a moment that you live in a country where the following conditions are true:
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