Which amendment guarantees the right to a speedy trial?

• A. Sixth
• B. Fifth
• C. Eighth
• D. Fourth

Answer: (A)

The Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to a speedy trial. This protects anyone accused of a crime from unnecessary and excessive delays between arrest and trial, helping to prevent prolonged pretrial detention, preserve evidence, and reduce memory deterioration of witnesses. It also supports a fair defense by allowing timely preparation and presentation of the case.

In practice, courts consider factors such as how long the delay is, the reasons for the delay, whether the defendant asserted the right, and whether the delay prejudiced the defense. The other amendments address different protections—due process and self-incrimination (Fifth), protection against unreasonable searches and seizures (Fourth), and protection against cruel or unusual punishment (Eighth).