What does the 5th Amendment prohibit?

The 5th Amendment of the United States Constitution is a critical element in the protection of individual rights against governmental power. It specifically prohibits the government from denying life, liberty, or property without due process of law. This due process clause ensures that all individuals receive fair legal proceedings and that laws are applied fairly and consistently. It reflects the fundamental principle that a person cannot be deprived of their basic rights without appropriate legal safeguards.

This amendment also incorporates other important protections, such as the right against self-incrimination and double jeopardy, but the core focus regarding this question is the due process protection it provides. This requirement obligates the government to follow established legal procedures and maintain fairness throughout legal processes, reinforcing the rule of law and individual rights in a democratic society.